THE PLAYBOOK · ZXZXMR
How to play Chess Online
Take a moment with Chess Online before moving to another game. Checkmate the opposing king. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. 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.
Notice the feedback
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Checkmate the opposing king. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Start with a deliberate move.
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. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
A useful example
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Compare the situation with the worked example. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Chess Online?
For clarity: Checkmate the opposing king.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Chess Online?
For clarity: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
When I return, 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?
For clarity: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
For my first round, what format does Chess Online offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
As a new player, 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.
