hibbs wrote:
is there anyone in the meantime who has some experience with KGS on a Windows 8 tablet?
Several years ago when my wife got a pen-based Windows tablet, I could not wait to play KGS on it. I thought by using my hands to make a move over a flat board, it would seem like a real-life game. Alas, I got a misclick every time I did not lower the pen exactly vertical, and I found it unplayable.
For Christmas, I got a HP Envy x2 and I've given it another go.
Cons:
- the java interface is not touch enabled, so when I instinctively swipe on all the scrollable lists (the games list, list of users watching a game, etc.) instead of a scroll, a random item in the list is selected. So, I then try to tap on the skinny scroll window and usually miss.
- since it is not designed for fingers, everything is small. I've learned to aim high when selecting a game in the game list because otherwise I get the game below.
- the virtual keyboard does not automatically come up when you put focus in the chat box. You have to keep the toolbar visible so that you can manually trigger the keyboard.
Pros:
- no misclicks! It requires two taps - the first tap puts a shadow of a stone and the second tap confirms. Sometimes my tap did not register and it takes a third tap. I don't recommend blitz this way.
When laying the screen flat, it felt like one of those magnetic travel boards and I found it hard to take the game seriously. I preferred to prop up the screen.
In the end, for playing I prefer the large screen and mouse of my desktop computer. However, for watching a KGS+ lecture or a high-dan game, sitting on the sofa with the tablet is more comfortable.
To play on a tablet, I am going to need something like the 27-inch coffee table tablet from Lenovo. Maybe next Christmas
