Control:  
Controlling Virtual Kasparov is a piece of cake. Move the cursor, pick the piece, move the cursor, pick its location.

The main game uses one button and the D-Pad, and this works just fine.

The only time someone might have a problem with the controls is during the tutorial modes. A single line of text scrolls across the screen over a training demo.

Unfortunately, some of the tutorial mode topics might be kind of basic, and the user will want to fast-forward some of the text, or maybe even skip it.

While Titus did implement the L and R buttons as text scrollers, they still don't accomplish that task.

Gameplay:  
But don't let that gripe fool you: the tutorial mode is excellent. It even goes so far as to study famous chess games, and even gives the user a chance to play the game in a 'but what if he moved here?' scenario.

The gameplay itself is largely made up of a 'story' mode. Basically, you select opponents from a map of the globe, with each opponent having a face, name, short bio, and unique play strategy.

The more people one defeats, the more open up. Eventually players will gain access to other countries and will play themselves silly trying to reach the ultimate showdown with Garry Kasparov.

Multiplayer:
The game supports four-player link up for a chess version of Chinese Checkers.

Chinese Chess has play-- ok, that's not true.

The standard two-player mode is included, however, and offers the option for a single pak link or for two players to huddle over the same system.

Either way works just fine, and beating the pants off your little brother will probably make you feel better about not having the skills to beat the easiest computer opponent.

Sound:
The game features happy little midi tunes, but interestingly these are not present during the game.

It's all about focus and you'll likely not even realize the absence of music while playing.

Those around you will, though. With the volume all the way up, people are going to wonder what you're doing when they enter a room to *woosh* *woosh* *woosh* *woosh* *woosh* *woosh* *woosh* *woosh*...

That's the sound for moving the cursor.

One other point, the game throws in a tone whenever someone is in check. It's helpful, and always a good reminder that you're about to go down thanks to Mohamed from Africa again. Seriously, Mohamed owns you.

OVERALL:
Overall, Virtual Kasparov goes above a simple chess game with its 'story' and tutorial modes.

The story mode is especially nice with its unlockable characters/locations and the way it keeps track of who you've beat.

At first I thought it'd be a passable title, but now I find myself compelled to beat just one more guy... and then another, and another!

Replay value on a handheld is good.

 

The Lowdown on  Virtual Kasparov Aesthetics: Average Control: Above Average Gameplay: Very Good Multiplayer: Average Sound: Below Average Innovation: 3/6 Lasting Appeal: 4/6 Overall: Above Average! "A Quality Game"