Game guide · MXZTJ
Making your first moves in Chess Online
Make Chess Online your next activity in the game library. Checkmate the opposing king. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. 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.
A small practice goal
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
Checkmate the opposing king. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.
The playing sequence
- 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.
Your inputs
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
A useful example
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Read the matching step again.
Avoid this misunderstanding
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Read these answers for extra help
For my first round, what is the goal of Chess Online?
The key detail is this: Checkmate the opposing king.
For this browser game, 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.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
Here is the relevant explanation: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
When I return, 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.
When I return, 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?
Keep this in mind: Select local play or basic computer.
While reading the Guide, 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.
As a new player, 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.
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.