SmartGo is an excellent program, hands down. For those of you interested in the ancient strategy game of Go (also known as iGo, Baduk, and WeiQi), there could hardly be a more fun program than this. Now, whenever you’re stuck on a plane or anyplace that’s completely boring, you’ll be able to challenge yourself to a fun game.

Review Date: May 14th, 2009 (Version 1.0)

Playing Strength [rating: 5]
Features [rating: 3]
Design [rating: 4]

Overall [rating: 4]

With the flexibility of 9×9, 11×11 (yea, who ever heard of that, right?), or 13×13 board sizes, you can play against a strong computerized opponent. Don’t take it lightly, either! SmartGo’s engine is based off of the famous “Monte Carlo” algorithm, capable of playing up to strengths of 3dan on a 9×9 board and 1dan on a 13×13 (approximate strengths).

The options are great, too. With the ability to turn down the program’s strength and play with handicaps, even beginner players can have a fun time with this program.

The only complaint I have is that it doesn’t play on a full size 19×19 board, but considering the limitations of the iPhone’s screen size I guess it’s understandable albeit disappointing.

Take it from an AGA 4dan’s perspective: This is a program that any Go fan shouldn’t be without. Definitely iWorth It.

The primary menu screen

A game in progress

SmartGo does a pretty good job counting for you