Chess: play free online

How to play chess

White moves first, then the players take turns. Your goal is checkmate: the opposing king is attacked and has no legal defence. You cannot leave your own king in check. When the player to move has no legal move but is not in check, the game ends in a stalemate draw.

The game supports castling, en passant and pawn promotion with a choice of piece. Select a piece to see its legal destinations. If a move breaks the rules, a message explains the reason, such as exposing your king.

Chess against the computer: eight difficulty levels

Start with a lower level while learning. The computer searches less and varies its choices more. Higher levels have larger search budgets and less randomness; the highest level chooses its best discovered move. A time limit keeps waiting under control, so a slower device can reach a shallower search. These levels do not claim a measured Elo rating.

Does a coach warning mean my move is illegal?

No. The coach evaluates a legal move and may warn about a weaker position or a forced mate. It compares candidate moves within the same analysis. You decide whether to take the move back or keep playing, and you can turn coaching off in settings. A separate hint points to a move on the board. After a game, a short review helps you revisit mistakes.

Online chess with a friend or local two player chess

Invite a friend through a room link or code. Online play includes turn indicators, preset reactions and a rematch. Local two player mode lets you share one device. Against the computer, choose White or Black.

Chess puzzles and daily practice

Try mate in one, two or three moves, or play the daily puzzle. In a full game, develop your knights and bishops, contest the centre and protect your king. Before capturing a piece, consider the opponent's reply. Winning material can be a poor trade if it leaves your king exposed.

Controls, larger pieces and separate audio buttons

Tap a piece and its destination, or drag it with a finger or mouse. Arrow keys move the keyboard selection and Enter confirms it. The Staunton pieces have larger artwork, and the collection previews board materials before you choose. Light and dark themes help you find a comfortable appearance.

The Sounds and Music buttons remain beside the board. Mute piece effects while keeping music, or play with piece sounds alone. Your preferences are saved. Resume an unfinished computer game, take moves back and use hints when you want help learning.