Its source code is quite portable, and can be easily compiled for Linux, as well as other Unix-like systems, Microsoft Windows and macOS; ports exist for other platforms.

For instance, it took the gold medal at the 2003 and 2006 Computer Olympiad[4] and second place at the 2006 Gifu Challenge.

[5] Although ASCII-based, GNU Go supports two protocols—the Go Modem Protocol and the Go Text Protocol—by which GUIs can interface with it to give a graphical display.

GTP also allows it to play online on Go servers (through the use of bridge programs), and copies can be found running on NNGS, KGS, and probably others.

Versions based on the much weaker 1.2 engine also exist for the Game Boy Advance and Palm Pilot.