About Chess
Chess needs little introduction: two armies of sixteen pieces face off on an 8-by-8 board, and the first side to trap the enemy king wins. This version keeps things straightforward. Click a piece and the squares it can move to light up in color, so you can concentrate on strategy rather than double-checking how each piece travels.
Every game is a fresh puzzle with no luck involved, which is why people keep returning to it for a lifetime. Beginners can lean on the move highlights to learn the rules by playing, while experienced players can focus on openings, tactics, and endgames. Sessions can be as quick or as drawn-out as you like, and there's always something new to learn from your last loss, whether it's a missed fork or a king left too exposed.
How to play Chess
- Your goal is to checkmate the opposing king by attacking it so it has no legal way to escape.
- Click a piece to see its possible moves highlighted, then click one of the highlighted squares to move there.
- Capture enemy pieces by moving onto their squares, and keep your own king out of danger.
- Players alternate turns with White moving first. A game can also end in a draw, for example by stalemate.
Chess controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| Mouse / Tap a piece | Select it and show its possible moves |
| Mouse / Tap a highlighted square | Move the selected piece there |
Tips and tricks
- Fight for the center early; pieces and pawns on the middle squares have more room to act.
- Develop your knights and bishops before moving the same piece twice in the opening.
- Castle early to tuck your king away and connect your rooks.
- Before every move, ask what your opponent's last move threatens.
