THE PLAYBOOK · SZHLJS
How to play Chess Online
Try Chess Online at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Checkmate the opposing king. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
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.
Make the controls familiar
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. 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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Look at the feedback after the action.
A useful example
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.
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. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Chess Online?
Checkmate the opposing king.
For my first round, how do I control Chess Online?
For clarity: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
What example helps explain Chess Online?
The key detail is this: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
For clarity: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
While learning, what format does Chess Online offer?
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?
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.