Game guide · NEW61
An introduction to playing Chess Online
Chess Online gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Checkmate the opposing king. Use the example below to understand a decision. Begin with the local / basic computer mode shown on the page. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
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.
An idea for your next attempt
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Refer to the controls when needed.
The objective of a round
Checkmate the opposing king. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
The steps to play
- Select local play or basic computer.
- Choose a piece and a legal target.
- Castling, en passant and promotion obey king-safety rules.
- Use the promotion selector before moving to the last rank.
- Undo or New game restarts play.
How to use the controls
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
One way to understand the rules
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Notice the change in the playing area.
A useful caution
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Compare the situation with the worked example. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Further help with the game
On this playing page, what is the goal of Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Checkmate the opposing king.
Before I begin, how do I control Chess Online?
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Chess Online?
Here is the relevant explanation: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
Before I begin, what format does Chess Online offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
Before I begin, which play mode does Chess Online use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Local / basic computer. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
As a new player, where should I start with Chess Online?
For clarity: Select local play or basic computer.
For my first round, 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.
For this browser game, how can I find Chess Online again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For this browser game, how do I report an issue with Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: 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.