Matthias Wuellenweber on all new functions for ChessBase 26
Matthias Wuellenweber presents ChessBase 26’s major innovations, beginning with the Enhanced Opening Report, which automatically generates deep statistical and thematic analyses — including pioneer players, popularity graphs, and tactical training positions — all tailored by Elo level to show how openings perform from club players to grandmasters. He introduces new analytical tools, such as Monte Carlo Analysis (engine-vs-engine simulations revealing true practical chances), AI plan descriptions that explain positions in natural language, and piece-manoeuvre visualizations that display typical movement patterns on the board. Finally, he showcases improved usability and design updates, including faster ray-traced 3D boards, streamlined engine management, upgraded duplicate-game detection, and modernized database icons for a smoother, more visually appealing experience. Photo: ChessBase
Matthias Wuellenweber on all new functions for ChessBase 26
0:00 – Enhanced Opening Report Automatic generation of a full report with key continuations, pioneers, popularity graphs, performance by Elo level, tactical motifs, and instructive games.
7:08 – Reference Search Improvements Faster player preparation filters — filter by player, colour, time control (classical only), and exclude blitz/rapid games with one click.
9:39 – Piece Manoeuvre Visualization New hover feature showing typical piece routes and exchanges on the board, colour-coded by success (green = good, red = bad).
11:03 – Monte Carlo Analysis Simulated engine-vs-engine games providing realistic win/draw/loss probabilities and statistical insight beyond static evaluation.
14:30 – AI Plan Description AI-generated natural-language explanations of a position’s strategic ideas, including move annotations and plan summaries.
17:00 – Real-Time Ray Tracing Board Drastically faster 3D visualization with lighting, reflections, and camera control for high-quality screenshots and presentation images.
18:59 – Engine Management Overhaul New three-column dialogue to easily delete, organize, and set default engines, plus instant engine toggling with Alt + F2.
20:11 – Duplicate Game Detection Completely rebuilt “Find Double Games” tool — faster, more reliable, and easier to handle for large databases.
21:03 – Database Icons & Style Themes Customizable icons, new colourful and modern database symbol sets, and visual style options matching the ribbon interface.
Minimum system requirements: PC/notebook with Windows 10/11 and 8 GB RAM
