Game guide · 2COU99BJ
Learn your way around Chess Online
Read the aim of Chess Online, then make your first move. Checkmate the opposing king. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the local / basic computer mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
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.
One thing to notice as you play
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Refer to the controls when needed.
What the game asks you to do
Checkmate the opposing king. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
Input guidance
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Use the control method described here for this activity. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
Put the rules into context
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Game-specific help
As a new player, what is the goal of Chess Online?
Checkmate the opposing king.
How do I control Chess Online?
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
While learning, what example helps explain Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
Here is the relevant explanation: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
Before I begin, what format does Chess Online offer?
For clarity: 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.
When I return, 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.
Where should I start with Chess Online?
For clarity: Select local play or basic computer.
As a new player, 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 my first round, 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.
How do I report an issue with Chess Online?
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.
