I’ve been playing chess for roughly 25 years, and honestly, nothing turns me off more than the thought of playing it online. It’s a shame that physical chessboards are being sidelined as more players opt for online play. Sure, online platforms bring convenience, tools like game analysis, and a larger pool of opponents, but a physical board offers a deeper, more captivating experience that sharpens strategic thinking and pattern recognition. Is there a way to enjoy the board without having to physically move my opponent’s pieces? Well, the answer is yes, and it’s called Manya Cynus.
Currently the subject of a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, this portable AI chess robot isn’t just another digital chess app or a clunky e-board. It’s a sleek, self-contained robotic companion that moves pieces on a real board, offering a chess experience that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. The chess set comprises three components: a chessboard, a robotic arm, and chess pieces.
“Designed with magnetic docking, the robotic arm locks securely into place on the board in one smooth move,” the company informs. Now the question arises, how does it work? Well, the robot uses an AI vision camera to recognize moves on a physical board, complete with magnetic pieces that snap satisfyingly into place.
Unlike other robotic chess systems like the Go Chess Mini or the Square Off, the Manya Cynus doesn’t rely on pulleys or magnets under the board. Instead, it employs a humanoid robotic arm that moves pieces with an almost theatrical grace. The arm’s precision, combined with an expressive animated face on a 5-inch high-definition display, gives the Manya Cynus a personality that makes every game feel like a match against a quirky, intelligent opponent.
Another notable highlight of the Manya Cynus chess robot is the integration of the Stockfish chess engine, the gold standard in chess AI. With eight difficulty levels, it can challenge everyone from a curious novice to a 2000-rated club player like myself. I’ve spent years playing against Stockfish on my laptop, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about watching a physical piece glide across the board in response to my moves. The Manya Cynus also allows you to resume any game position, which is a fantastic feature for analyzing complex endgames or recreating classic matches. This is where I get to live my Kasparov vs. Topalov 1999 classic fantasy.
For those who crave online play, the robot supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to platforms like Lichess and Chess.com, letting you battle global opponents without staring at a screen. This offline-to-online flexibility caters to players for players who find digital interfaces draining but still want to test their skills against the world.
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Another intriguing aspect of the Manya Cynus is its open-source protocol, which opens the door for customization. “Developers can use our open-source protocol to write Python scripts, link to Lichess or Chess.com, or build entirely new interactions,” the company states. The Manya Cynus also stands out for its portability and ease of use. Weighing 5.7lbs, it folds neatly into a carrying case and is designed to go wherever you please.
Given the advanced tech and other perks Manya Cynus offers, it’s definitely meant for a hardcore chess player. But if you are a beginner, I would recommend resorting to traditional chess sets before trying your hand at a smart board. For those still willing to try, the Manya Cynus robotic chess board can be reserved on Kickstarter for an early bird price of $190.
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