Game guide · SJZWEISHEN
Learn the rules of 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. Read the objective before making your first input. Look at what changes after your first action.
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.
Give this approach a try
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.
What the game asks you to do
Checkmate the opposing king. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Check the rules when you are unsure.
How to proceed
- 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.
Using the playing area
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Use the control method described here for this activity. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Learn from a sample situation
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Choose a deliberate next step.
A common point of confusion
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. Check the rule before repeating the action. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Questions that come up during play
As a new player, what is the goal of Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Checkmate the opposing king.
While reading the Guide, 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?
For clarity: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
For a quick reminder, what format does Chess Online offer?
For clarity: 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.
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.
As a new player, where should I start with Chess Online?
Select local play or basic computer.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For my first round, 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.
When I return, 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.