Product Overview: Betafish Chess AI
Introduction
Betafish is an advanced chess AI engine that combines the strengths of two of the most renowned chess engines: AlphaZero and Stockfish. Developed by Gavin Ong, Betafish is designed to provide a robust and adaptive chess playing experience, making it an excellent tool for players of various skill levels.
Key Features
Hybrid Engine
Betafish is an amalgamation of AlphaZero’s neural network capabilities and Stockfish’s traditional algorithmic strengths. This hybrid approach allows Betafish to leverage the best of both worlds, offering a unique and powerful chess playing experience.
Performance and Rating
Betafish is estimated to have a rating of around 2000 Elo, demonstrating its capability to compete against strong opponents. It has successfully beaten Fairy Stockfish Level 6 on Lichess.com and the 2200 Elo bot on chess.com.
Searching Algorithm
Betafish employs a conventional Negamax algorithm, which is enhanced by several advanced techniques:
- Move Ordering using the MVV-LVA heuristic: This helps in prioritizing moves based on their potential impact.
- Principal Variation Search: Focuses on the most promising lines of play.
- Quiescence Search: Ensures that the evaluation of positions is stable and accurate.
- Iterative Deepening: Allows the engine to gradually increase the depth of its search.
- Tapered Evaluation using PeSTO’s tables: Refines the evaluation function for more accurate assessments.
Computational Depth
Betafish can calculate a significant number of configurations, evaluating positions up to a depth of around 7 plies per second, processing approximately 800,000 nodes per second. This computational depth enables it to analyze and predict moves with high accuracy.
Functionality
Adaptive Gameplay
While Betafish does not dynamically adjust its difficulty level based on the player’s performance in real-time, its hybrid nature ensures that it can provide a challenging and engaging game for players across different skill levels.
Strategic Analysis
Betafish uses advanced algorithms to evaluate chess positions, considering factors such as material imbalance, piece development, king safety, center control, and pawn structure. This comprehensive analysis helps in making intelligent and strategic moves.
Integration and Compatibility
Although Betafish is primarily a standalone engine, its architecture allows for potential integration with various chess platforms and tools, making it versatile for different use cases.
Conclusion
Betafish is a powerful and sophisticated chess AI engine that combines the strengths of AlphaZero and Stockfish. Its advanced searching algorithms, high computational depth, and hybrid approach make it an excellent choice for chess enthusiasts looking to improve their game or engage in challenging matches. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, Betafish offers a robust and engaging chess playing experience.