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Beyond Chess

Beyond Chess; by Ialy Games, Recommended Ages: 8 to Adult, approximate retail $39.99.

Think you know the game of chess? Of course you know the rules of chess. Think again. Get ready to go beyond chess.

You sit down for a run of the mill game of chess. Maybe you are thinking strategy already. You have a few strong moves in your arsenal and you're ready to play. But wait a minute, now, not only do you have to worry about where the pieces are, but where the board is going! Imagine moving your piece - then shifting a board square! As the game progresses, the board on which it's played is reshaped again and again.

What appeared to be a path to absolute victory may suddenly become the road to defeat. You really have to think and rethink your game plan as the match goes on.

For years chess enthusiasts have looked for ways to make the 1500-year-old game of chess more appealing and dynamic. Dave Crockett, creator of Beyond Chess, takes the games principles to a whole new level by applying them to an ever changing environment while making sure to preserve the essence of traditional chess.

Crockett always loved games, inventing his first game at the age of 9. Dave Crockett's father opened up a whole new world of game play when he taught his 12 year-old son how to play chess. From there he became an avid chess player and a proud member of the U.S. Chess Federation. As a U.S. Marine, he created the concept of a movable board to more closely reflect modern warfare and take chess to a whole new level never before seen.

Many believe chess should be about strategic game play in its truest form. Being able to memorize moves from a book may help you win games, but it's not a true gauge of your ability. A more accurate test of one's individual skill is to play in an ever changing environment in which you must think, analyze, and adapt using your own creative brainpower.

We found this version of chess to be very interesting. Players at all levels enjoyed the challenge, and challenging it was. It proved to be an excellent way to get those who had lost interest in the mundane game of chess excited about playing again. Because the game of chess has so many educational benefits to start with, we believe this would be an excellent addendum for chess clubs, classrooms, and living rooms alike.

Developmental benefits of chess:
· Builds confidence
· develop problem solving skills
· increase concentration
· build discipline
· develop critical thinking skills
· improve communication
· build memory skills
· learn sportsmanship
· Analyze actions and consequences, and visualize future possibilities.
· Develop analytical and decision-making skills
· Students exhibit excellence in the ability to recognize complex patterns and consequently can develop the skills to excel in math and science.

The Beyond Chess set includes 64 1.5" solid plastic squares that should accommodate most chess pieces; 64 makeup the board plus 2 spares, the 32 chess pieces are standard Staunton design with felt bottom, an easy to follow 12-page instruction booklet, and a convenient, nylon, backpack carrying bag.

About the Author: Mary Rose is a Mommy, a writer and an early childhood educator who believes in learning through play and the value of good toys.