Karpov cos simple chess is the most beautiful chess.
Best chess player in history

I don't think it will ever be agreed on, everyone has their favourites. I'm a fan of Kasparov and Karpov, but to be honest there are so many great players to learn from.

Exactly! It might be easier, but I doubt it, if the question were "best positional player", "best defensive player", "best attacking player" etc. If we're going by titles as in indicator of best player, Kasparov is the winner.

best positional player Capablanca - best defense Karpow, best attacking Kasparow
most entertaining: Mikhail Tal

According to my analysis and research Magnus Carlsen is the best player in history - see https://www.chess.com/forum/view/chess-players/the-strongest-chess-players-of-all-time
who is the best