The Chess Computer Review

Ismenio’s chess computer collection doesn’t include this one yet - but it will in time. Sleek, like an expensive personal organising PDA- the Saitek Maestro leads the pack in handheld chess computers and handheld electronic chess with Saitek’s enlightened decision to include a backlight and contrast settings. They’ve done so well with the model that it’s a shame to rain on the parade by pointing out the single, obvious, universally agreed flaw. The quality of the graphics is not good. The light and contrast help - but only because the LCD graphics representing the individual pieces are not up to scratch. Come on Saitek - make something like a Mercedes rather than a Ford. On balance the electronic chess computer is very good - just the one flaw, and even so the backlight and contrast take it past it’s rivals.

Here’s the proof of it - in their instruction booklet they give a guide as to which pieces is which, ecouraging the user to ‘get to know the representations’ - this shouldn’t be needed. A few games are required before the user becomes familiar with the pieces - then it’s not really a problem - but a shame for the user to have to do this. The market is aching for a combination of good graphics, good strength and good lighting.