In this article, I’ll be discussing what I believe to be one of the best chess tactics apps out there: the Chess King series of apps.
For clarity, this isn’t a paid promotion, just a personal recommendation from a chess lover who has found these apps incredibly beneficial for my chess journey.
Let’s get into it.
Understanding Chess King
Developed by the renowned company Chess King, these apps function as an effective conversion of their popular CT-ART software.
The apps cover all aspects of the game: from commonplace themes such as endgames, middle games, and openings, to more intricate concepts.
However, I focus mainly on their tactics apps, which, in my experience, surpass many other chess apps—whether it’s on platforms like Chess.com, Lichess, or Chess Tempo.
Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate player, or an advanced player, Chess King has something to offer.
For beginners, there’s the “Tactics for Beginners” app.
As you improve, there are apps with problems based on rating ranges.
These ratings typically range from 1200 to 2400.
Why Chess King Apps are My Go-To Choice
Despite each app being intricately designed and structured for specific skill levels, they share certain notable attributes:
- Thematic Organization: Arguably the most beneficial aspect of these apps is how problems are organized.
Issues are grouped by theme, improving pattern recognition which is fundamental to chess mastery.
Each theme begins with simple problems that gradually increase in complexity.
- Interactive Problem Rendering: When a problem is answered incorrectly, the app’s built-in engine explains why the move doesn’t work and encourages another attempt.
This iterative cycle, coupled with triggered hints, promotes learning rather than mechanical solutions.
- Quality Problem Set: All problems are sourced from real games or composed studies—contrary to the computer-generated tactics of online trainers.
These problems offer human solutions—thematic, instructive, and rich in common tactics—that constantly appear in chess literature and gameplay.
Cons Of Chess King
We’ve explored the benefits of this app and so far, it’s a great tool for improvement.
However, it can be a bit pricey. For example, the CT-ART 4.0 (Chess tactics 1200-2400 ELO) is priced at $11.99.
Though you get 1853 new practice exercises, no ads, and lifetime access, I’m not sure everyone will be able to get the app because of the price.
However, I believe it’s good value for your money and advise you to get it if you can.
That’s all. Let me know if you found this brief review valuable.
Any questions? Throw them below and you’ll get an answer shortly.