Scid

Scid, short for "Shane's Chess Information Database," is an outstanding chess database application developed by Pascal Georges. The latest version, 4.7.1, brings a wealth of features, ensuring that every chess enthusiast can browse databases of chess games, edit games, and search for games by various criteria with ease. The program files typically come with names like scid.exe, making it simple to download and set up on any supported OS.

Speaking of compatibility, Scid 4.7.1 supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows XP/XP Professional, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11. This versatility ensures that nearly anyone can use Scid, regardless of their computer's operating system. Scid is categorized under Games, and more specifically, the Board subcategory, making it perfectly suited for chess lovers. Other notable versions of this program include 4.6, 4.5, and 4.4, which have all contributed to its solid reputation.

For those looking for different aliases, Scid might come across as Scid 1 in certain contexts. One of the notable features is its ability to convert to and from the standard PGN (Portable Game Notation) format, which is a huge boon for those looking to integrate their chess databases seamlessly. The PGN window provides an excellent way to display text of the current game, enhancing the overall user experience.

Pros:

• Free to download and use.
• Highly compatible with multiple versions of Windows OS.
• Converts easily to and from PGN format.
• Compact and fast three-file database format.

Cons:

• The interface might seem a bit complicated for beginners.
• Limited to chess and related functionalities, no other board games are supported.

In summary, Scid is an excellent choice for anyone who is serious about improving their chess skills or managing their chess game databases. It offers powerful features while being completely free to download, making it a valuable tool in any chess enthusiast's arsenal.

You may want to check out more software, such as Cafe Mahjongg, CheckerBoard or Mythic Mahjong, which might be related to Scid.