Dariush

"Dariush" is a fantastic software that allows users to engage in the ancient board game of Go. Whether playing against the program itself, an external Go engine, or a human opponent through servers like IGS, LGS, or WinG, "Dariush" offers a versatile gaming experience. This "Games" software falls under the "Puzzle" subcategory, and it is suitable for various levels of players with its 7 distinct game levels and support for multiple goban sizes, including 9x9, 11x11, 13x13, 15x15, 17x17, and 19x19.

The latest version, "6.0.0.1", developed by "By Dariush", comes with enhanced features and improved performance. The program's file size is 23.1 MB and goes by the name of "Dariush.exe". This latest version expands on previous releases like versions 6.0, 5.2, and 5.0. The software is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11.

"Dariush" takes pride in its multifaceted gameplay settings. It allows users to play with or without a handicap (0-9) and supports three different rule sets: Japanese, Chinese, and AGA. For those who enjoy analyzing games or improving their strategies, the program includes extensive options for editing games, adding commentary, and marking each move. The ability to create an infinite number of variations, limited only by available memory, makes it an invaluable tool for Go enthusiasts.

One of the remarkable features of "Dariush" is its capability to handle numerous simultaneous games, again limited only by the memory of the system. The inclusion of time limits or the option to play without them adds another level of flexibility, catering to both casual players and serious competitors.

Pros:

1. Versatile gameplay modes and levels.
2. Supports multiple rule sets and board sizes.
3. Excellent tools for game editing and commentary adding.
4. Ability to handle multiple games simultaneously.

Cons:

1. Memory limitations could hinder extensive use.
2. The interface might require some getting used to for beginners.

Overall, "Dariush" is free to download and offers an engaging and comprehensive Go-playing experience that caters to both new and experienced players.

You may want to check out more software, such as Astra Jigsaw Landmarks Edition, Cubology or CDDC-Mahjongg, which might be similar to Dariush.