This prototype chess application demonstrates the concept of 'browser as platform'. The purpose behind developing this application is to push the boundaries of what can conceivably be run within a browser. It can be played as a single player or a multi-player networked game.
Key Features:
In the single player mode, Morfik Chess utilizes the first implementation of a JavaScript/AJAX Chess Engine. Running in your browser it can calculate well beyond 5-ply search, depending on browser and CPU (10-ply is typical for most desktop chess engines, with a Grandmaster-strength chess engine probably requiring better than 12-ply).
It employs an efficient heuristic algorithm, quiescent searching, as well as other sophisticated evaluation functions. This chess engine resolves JavaScript timing issues in browsers. Among its many features, it provides visual indications of all legal moves, drag-and-drop, animation of the opponent’s pieces, PDF output of game summary, auto saving of network games, standard long-algebraic notation of moves and standard FEN notation for board configurations.
In the multi-player network mode, you play via an application which is running in your browser, i.e. you initiate the browser chess game and invite your friend to join the game using their browser.
