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Computer Chess

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MSX 1 Board Game 1 Player 5 (0) 2

Computer Chess

Computer Chess on MSX1

Compiled by the Retro Games Online Editorial Team · Updated June 27, 2026

Computer Chess is exactly what it sounds like: a digital chess opponent for the MSX 1 home computer. Released sometime in the early 1980s, no specific publisher or developer is widely documented for this title. It's a straightforward board game simulation that runs on the MSX 1's modest hardware, likely distributed as a cassette or cartridge game during the platform's heyday. If you're looking for a pure chess experience from the dawn of home computing, this fits the bill.

The player takes on the role of white or black against the computer AI. You make moves by selecting a piece and then a destination square, using the keyboard or a joystick. The game enforces standard chess rules. The display is simple, with a top-down view of the board and algebraic notation for squares. There is no story or extra modes; it's just you and the machine playing chess turn by turn until checkmate or a draw.

Today, Computer Chess is a niche curiosity for MSX collectors and chess enthusiasts interested in early game AI. It doesn't have flashy graphics or sound, but it represents the era when computers were first learning to play chess at a basic level. If you enjoy seeing how far chess engines have come or just want a no-frills game to pass the time, this is worth a quick look. It's a straightforward port of a classic board game to an early microcomputer.

How to Play Computer Chess Online

Getting started: When the game loads, you'll see a chessboard with the starting position. The game likely prompts you to choose your side (white or black) using the keyboard or controller. Use the D-pad (arrow keys) to navigate the cursor over a piece, press the confirm button (X) to select it, then move to the desired square and press X again to place it. If you press the cancel button (S), it will deselect the piece.

The core loop is simple: make your move, then wait for the computer to respond. Pay attention to the board and think ahead just like in real chess. There is no timer, so take your time. The game will announce check, checkmate, or draw when applicable. If you're new to chess, the AI in this early title is fairly weak by modern standards, making it a good learning tool. Just move your pieces and enjoy a quiet match with a retro computer.

Computer Chess Keyboard Controls

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Frequently Asked Questions

Who developed Computer Chess?

The developer of Computer Chess for MSX 1 is not widely documented. Like many early MSX games, it may have been produced by a small team or an obscure publisher that did not leave a clear record.

What makes Computer Chess stand out among MSX 1 titles of its era?

It stands out as one of the few dedicated chess simulations on the platform, offering a simple but functional opponent for players who wanted electronic chess at home. Its simplicity and reliance on the MSX 1's limited graphics make it a typical example of early home computer chess games.

Is there anything iconic or memorable about Computer Chess?

Not particularly; it's a straightforward port of the board game with no flair or extra features. Its main appeal today is for collectors who want to try every MSX chess title or experience the basic AI of the early 1980s.