info-mac@utcsrgv.UUCP (info-mac) (07/02/84)
Date: Sat 23 Jun 84 17:54:24-PDT From: uw-beaver!M.MCLURE@LOTS-A Subject: Sargon chess program on Macintosh To: Info-Mac-Lots@LOTS-A Hayden Software should be releasing Sargon III for the Macintosh in 6-8 weeks. This program is a revitalized version of the Sargon III running on the Apple II and various other personal computers. It is written in 68000 assembly language and has a 2-dimensional graphics board with the usual Macintosh menu interface system. While Sargon III on the 8-bit machines is not particularly impressive in strength compared to the other Spracklen programs (Elite and Prestige) that are hardwired in chess units, Sargon III on the Macintosh *is* reputed to be quite impressive because of the throughput. Elite and Prestige are rated approximately 1800 and 1875 respectively. They run on 6502's at 2 and 4 mhz. The current issue of Macworld has a Hayden ad that says the Sargon III/Mac combination beat a weak human master in over-the-board rated play and vaguely implies that it is the strongest program running on a micro. Whether this includes the hardwired units is problematical. No doubt matches between Prestige/Elite and Sargon III/Mac will be arranged. Prestige is considered the top micro program by 1/2 to a full USCF class interval over other micro programs. Stuart -------