Game guide · ZZDXKJ
Chess Online: how a round works
Start Chess Online by looking at the playing area and its controls. Checkmate the opposing king. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. 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.
An idea for your next attempt
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
The objective of a round
Checkmate the opposing king. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
Making selections and moves
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Use the control method described here for this activity. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
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.
Watch out for this
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Answers about the rules and controls
Before I begin, what is the goal of Chess Online?
For clarity: Checkmate the opposing king.
For my first round, how do I control Chess Online?
Here is the relevant explanation: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
As a new player, what example helps explain Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
The key detail is this: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
While reading the Guide, what format does Chess Online offer?
Keep this in mind: 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Chess Online use?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
The key detail is this: Select local play or basic computer.
For a quick reminder, 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.
While learning, 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?
For clarity: 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.