Skip to content
XINLIANSHOP

Local / basic computer · FREE PLAY

Chess Online

Read the rules ↓
Chess
Choose your controls and enjoy a free round.
No account neededRules & controls →

Game guide · XINLIANSHOP

Your guide to Chess Online

Start Chess Online by looking at the playing area and its controls. Checkmate the opposing king. Use the example below to understand a decision. 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.

Practice beyond the first move

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Refer to the controls when needed.

Aim for this result

Checkmate the opposing king. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

The playing sequence

  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.

Keyboard and screen controls

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Read a button’s label before selecting it. A new-round button replaces the current round.

A useful example

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.

A mistake to avoid

The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.

Questions about this game

Before I begin, what is the goal of Chess Online?

For clarity: Checkmate the opposing king.

As a new player, how do I control Chess Online?

Keep this in mind: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.

On this playing page, what example helps explain Chess Online?

For clarity: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?

The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.

For my first round, 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.

For this browser game, 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.

For this browser game, where should I start with Chess Online?

For clarity: Select local play or basic computer.

When I return, 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.

How can I find Chess Online again?

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

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Chess Online?

Keep this in mind: 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.

Games

Move on to your next game

View all games
Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)