Powaqqatsi version 3.
A Chess Program.
Low resolution only.
(c) 1992 G. Franklin.
Powaqqatsi: From the Hopi language meaning an entity, a way of life, that
consumes the life forces of other beings in order to further its own life.
The program: Was written in 68000 assembly language.
It is NOT public domain and is not to be sold or distributed without prior
permission from the author.
It understands all the rules of chess.
It can underpromote for you or itself & also recognise a draw from inadequate
mating material.
Extensions to the 50 move rule have been ignored.
A move is made by clicking the mouse on the departure and destination squares
or you can type in the move using algebraic notation (e.g. "E2-E4").
You can't 'pick up' a piece using the mouse.
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Set up mode: Enter the colour,piece,algebraic position.
Example: typing "WQF3" puts a white queen on F3.
"BPM+E6" puts a moved black pawn on E6.
" C5" erases any piece on C5 square.
Pressing "M" after piece type means it will be seen as having moved.
Pressing space will erase the contents of the square.
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Levels: Determines width of search.
Blitz mode makes moves very quickly for speed chess games.
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Notes: Allows you to document games.
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Opening Book: A selection of popular openings plus a few unusual choices.
A book move will be played instantly, regardless of level.
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Analysis: Lets you see what the ST is 'thinking'.
All moves examined to 5 ply will be shown, not just the 'best so far'.
The number of nodes evaluated is shown where the move is usually displayed.
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The display: You can choose between 2D or 3D boards and change the
board and piece colours. You can also select a shaded 3D board.
The board can be rotated through: 180 degrees in 2D mode, 90 degrees in 3D
mode (an arrow shows the direction that white is playing).
The Atari logo indicates that the ST is 'thinking'.
The menu bar is hidden until the mouse cursor reaches the top of the screen.
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The chess algorithm: A simple fixed ply minimax program, all moves within
width (defined by Level) are examined to a depth of 3 ply. The 5 'best moves'
are then examined to a depth of 5 ply. Ply depth in blitz mode is shallower.
There is no 'search to quiescence'.
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Comments & suggestions always appreciated, but enclose S.A.E. for a reply !
Gary Franklin, 51,St. Marks Road, Canvey Island, Essex.
Or you can contact me via packet radio - G4GHD @ GB7DUG.