Overview
Released in 1986, ‘Tommy’s Chess Set’ is a computer chess game developed by Tommy’s Toys. It offers a straightforward and minimalist approach to digital chess, reflecting the design sensibilities of the mid-1980s. The game is designed to provide chess enthusiasts with a platform to play and improve their skills against a computer opponent.
Gameplay
The game provides various levels of difficulty to accommodate players of different skill levels, from beginners to more experienced players. Users can play against a computer opponent that adapts based on the chosen difficulty. The user interface, typical of 1980s software, focuses on functionality rather than aesthetics, with simple graphics that clearly display the chessboard and pieces.
Features
- Multiple difficulty settings to challenge players of varying skill levels
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Designed for solo play against a computer opponent
Historical Context
During the 1980s, computer chess games began to gain popularity as home computers became more accessible. ‘Tommy’s Chess Set’ is an example of the early computer chess games that paved the way for more advanced chess software in later years.
Legacy
While not widely renowned, the game stands as a representation of early digital chess games. It captures the essence of 1980s software development, catering to chess enthusiasts who were eager to explore the capabilities of computer opponents in a burgeoning digital era.









