Although the "Chessmaster" engine is generally not as strong as the engines of other commercially available chess programs such as Fritz, critics have praised the "Chessmaster" series for its comprehensive tutorials aimed at players of amateur and moderate skill levels. In its review of "Chessmaster 9000", IGN said that "the series has always distinguished itself with first-rate chess teaching tools," and welcomed the game's "appeal towards inexperienced and mid-level players. With all manner of tutorials, detailed analysis and exercises, the game helps ease newbies into the experience." GameSpot's review of "Chessmaster 10th Edition" commented positively on the game's "huge bundle of features aimed at everyone from the neophyte who's looking to learn the basics to the advanced wood pusher who may need practice for tournament play."