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Learn your way around Chess Online

One thing to notice as you play

Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Refer to the controls when needed.

The goal to keep in mind

Checkmate the opposing king. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Start here and follow along

  1. Select local play or basic computer.
  2. Choose a piece and a legal target.
  3. Castling, en passant and promotion obey king-safety rules.
  4. Use the promotion selector before moving to the last rank.
  5. Undo or New game restarts play.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

Learn from a sample situation

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.

Avoid this misunderstanding

The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Answers about the rules and controls

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Chess Online?

The key detail is this: Checkmate the opposing king.

For my first round, how do I control Chess Online?

Here is the relevant explanation: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.

Before I begin, what example helps explain Chess Online?

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.

When I return, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?

The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.

While reading the Guide, what format does Chess Online offer?

Play on one device with a friend or against the basic computer opponent. Repetition and the fifty-move rule trigger an automatic draw here; there is no internet matchmaking or tournament clock.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Chess Online use?

Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Local / basic computer. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

While reading the Guide, where should I start with Chess Online?

The key detail is this: Select local play or basic computer.

For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Chess Online?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

How can I find Chess Online again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Chess Online?

For clarity: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.