Arena

Arena 16.10

Provides a Graphical User Interface for chess

16.10.2 Latest version
Freeware Absolutely free
Mac No version
Developer Martin Blume

Program info

See all (4)
Main window
Appearance options
Engine manager
General view

Offers assistance in analyzing a chess game, the way the chess pawns have been moved, the tactics and also you can play a game of chess. Besides it also provides testing solutions for chess engines. It is compatible with Winboard protocol I, II and UCI protocol I, II.

Arena is a complete GUI for chess engines. The program already comes with an engine that enables you to play against the computer, but it also supports almost all popular engines. The program is vastly customizable and easy to use, so you create exactly the kind of game you want. Thanks to the adjustable strength, you can select the difficulty level and increase it as you get more acquainted with game and more skillful.

What is great is that the program provides detailed information about moves and thinking process of the computer. This can help you learn from the engine to defeat your enemies faster. You can even play online with other people or create tournaments between two engines to learn from them too. Other useful features of the program include printing capabilities, support of the DGT Chessboard, EPD and PGN support, user interface available in multiple languages, to name but a few.
In short, Arena is a wonderful program that includes everything chess players need to become professional players.

SM
Silvana Mansilla
5 (Senior editor)

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Nice and intuitive user interface
  • Extensive help file
  • Supports most engines

Cons

  • None
User
It doesn't seem to be a legit "Arena" app. Most reliable sources say the latest version is still the 3.5.1.
Both "arena" apps pretend to be from Martin Blume... If it's the same app, why can't I see the official 3.5.1 in the old versions?
Something's wrong with all the release dates too, so I see some red flags. Very suspicious to say the least...
I can't give more than a 1 star, and I won't download any of those versions until I have proofs this app here is legit.
More
S
Stephan
1
After entering the first move the engine starts playing a game instead of allowing me to input moves. There doesn't seem to be a way to make 'edit' the default mode. I decided to test Arena to see if it is an alternative to commercial GUIs. I am already disappointed with Arena from the word go. More
M
Musunka Pethias
5
Very good and helpful programm for professional chess players More
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