Skip to content
2COPE

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 · 2COPE

Chess Online: how a round works

Take a moment with Chess Online before moving to another game. Checkmate the opposing king. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. 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.

One thing to notice as you play

Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Notice the feedback after each input.

What the game asks you to do

Checkmate the opposing king. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Take a moment to understand the current position.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Choosing and moving on screen

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

Work through an example

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.

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. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Read these answers for extra help

For this browser game, what is the goal of Chess Online?

Checkmate the opposing king.

When I return, how do I control Chess Online?

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.

While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Chess Online?

Here is the relevant explanation: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.

When I return, 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?

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?

The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Local / basic computer. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Chess Online?

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.

Before I begin, 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?

The key detail is this: 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

There is more to play

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