THE PLAYBOOK · SJBOB
How to play Chess Online
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Chess Online. Checkmate the opposing king. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Use the example below to understand a decision.
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.
Read before acting
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.
Your goal
Checkmate the opposing king. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Common questions
Before I begin, 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?
For clarity: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
While learning, what example helps explain Chess Online?
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
When I return, 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 learning, what format does Chess Online offer?
The key detail is this: 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.
While reading the Guide, 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.