THE PLAYBOOK · CDBRM
How to play Chess Online
Try Chess Online at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Checkmate the opposing king. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.
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.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Checkmate the opposing king. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Chess Online?
The key detail is this: Checkmate the opposing king.
As a new player, 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?
Keep this in mind: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
When I return, 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.
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.