Screen clarity and chess piece recognition seem to top the list of desirables among LCD chess computers. Excalibur has taken the lead over Saitek with their very desirable new model, the Deluxe Talking Touch Chess. They've figured it out... finally! Instead of attempting blindfold chess, you can simply smile at 32 handsome chess pieces.

It's rated USCF 2000 - a real improvement over comparable models under $100. If you've been indecisive about which computer to get, the game's over. The computer's well worth the money - not to mention the zipper, all black, protective leather slip-case that's impressive all by itself!

I haven't checked out its "complete voice library" yet, but that should be a bonus - provided it's not recorded by your average club player?!

Raphael