Customer Reviews of Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld
Peter from Montreal Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewThis handheld is a joy to play and an absolute bargain. Purchased because I wanted to play some games on the bus while commuting to work and Nintendo DS and other consoles did not seem to have decent chess games. The screen is wonderful and the graphics very quickly became intuitive. The 60 fun modes will likely not offer much challenge to semi-serious players (but they are quick and fun), but the 40 other modes, especially the tournament ones, are more than difficult enough. My favorite features are rated play and the coach that pops in from time to time with comments on the game to tell you that you ay have a good move available. Best of all, this console has finally made it easy to make use of the many chess books that I have bought over the years that I never seem to get through. I can never bring myself to sit down with a book and board at home (I'd rather play a game!) but now I can read and study on the bus. The Mephisto allows easy navigation back and forth through the move list and is an ideal companion when reading a chess book. Top marks and way better than I expected.
Bruce from Tucson Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewWhen I first received my game I had some difficulty distinguishing the black from the white pieces. Surprisingly it didn't take long at all before the pieces were easy to distinguish. I like to play it casually and like to play blitz. There are many settings I haven't tried but I've found a few that are just what I want. I highly recommend it.
Nancy from Lincoln Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewCan't properly review this item. I gave it as a gift to my six-year-old grandson and have not heard how he likes it.
Sergio from Oakland, CA Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewI've been eyeing this bad boy for a while, so when it went on sale, I jumped on it. At first, I was a little turned off by the pieces... As another reviewer has already stated, they are a little hard to tell apart, and this made it confusing to use at first. But just as with other LCD chess computers, after a few games, I got used to it, and it's not even an issue anymore. I can tell the pieces apart just as easily as if I were playing OTB. The multitude of playing levels makes it easy to find one that's just challenging enough without being frustrating to play against, just like playing against another human being. The backlight is bright, and the contrast is adjustable, meaning that the screen and the pieces are easily visible under any lighting conditions, from complete darkness to bright sunlight. In short, it's the finest handheld chess computer I've ever owned. It goes with me everywhere, and it got me through a pretty long week at a loved one's hospital bedside. Highly recommended, and well worth the price.
David from New York Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewI haven't had this for long, but I find the pieces to be a bit confusing and hard to keep track of. There isn't a lot that distinguishes between white and black pieces. There are a lot of options that I haven't explored yet, so that may make up for it.
C. from Campbell Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewIf you want to improve your chess buy this! This is great to have with a good chess book. You will still need Fritz for studying openings!
John from Lakewood Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewAfter having the Maestro traveling chess Computer for a while, I would have to say it's a very good chess tool. I have still not used all the functions as there are so many available, but the ones i have used are very good indeed.Many levels and many helps when I make a silly move.The one shortcoming I have seen is the study part. It only has one game it starts in different moments of the game. Otherwise, it's the best travel chess computer i have ever owned. If you like chess and do some traveling, or just sitting in the yard, get one. I think you will enjoy the many levels and functions and not be bored.
Peter from Orrington Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewMost all chess computers are strong; most all have more features than you could ever use; book openings, take backs, hints, tutors, problem solving,etc. They ALL have these great features. But, with the touch screens, the number 1 issue has been visibility. "Is that a pawn, or a knight?". This makes the game completely ruined.I have tested many hand held games over the years and this one, hands down, is the best. The pieces are easily distinguishable and that is why it is a 5 star rating.The overall feel of the game is one of quality with some weight to it. In an age where so much plastic feels like junk, this chess set is very well made. The batteries last a long time, and there are two back-light settings, for those times where you really need better lighting. You can play the games in complete silence (no beeps to wake up your spouse).I have owned this for several years and it is really the best. Enjoy!
Roland from Taylor Saitek Mephisto Maestro Travel Chess Computer Handheld ReviewSuperb product; everything it's advertised to be and more. Solid, sturdily built, high quality in every respect. Comfortable, ergonomic design, well worth the cost. Excellent.
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