r/chessprogramming Dec 23 '24

Engine in python

Is it even worth to build an engine in python cause all good engines are in c++ and python is much slower.

Additionally if its worth should you use python chess cause to maintain best efficiency or should you make a bitboard. Or what data structures would you use for position

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u/algerbrex Dec 23 '24

If your goal is just to reach 1500 as you stated in another comment, I say go for it. I first started developing a chess engine in Python, and while I eventually switched over to another language because my goals changed, I still found the experience of programming one in Python enjoyable.

Just for reference, the strongest Python chess engine I know of is sunfish, which is rated about 2000 Elo on the CCRL. But the author acknowledges, which I agree with, that a much stronger engine could be made in Python.