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Follow the steps for Chess Online

Build familiarity through play

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Refer to the controls when needed.

The challenge in front of you

Checkmate the opposing king. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.

Making your moves

  1. Select local play or basic computer.
  2. Choose a piece and a legal target.
  3. Castling, en passant and promotion obey king-safety rules.
  4. Use the promotion selector before moving to the last rank.
  5. Undo or New game restarts play.

How to interact with the game

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use one clear input at a time.

Work through an example

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.

A common point of confusion

The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Read these answers for extra help

While learning, what is the goal of Chess Online?

Here is the relevant explanation: Checkmate the opposing king.

For a quick reminder, how do I control Chess Online?

Here is the relevant explanation: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.

When I return, what example helps explain Chess Online?

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.

Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?

Keep this in mind: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.

For this browser game, what format does Chess Online offer?

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?

Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Local / basic computer. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Chess Online?

For clarity: Select local play or basic computer.

Before I begin, 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.

On this playing page, how can I find Chess Online again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

When I return, how do I report an issue with Chess Online?

The key detail is this: 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.