Game guide · 58BLOG
How to play Chess Online
Take a moment with Chess Online before moving to another game. Checkmate the opposing king. Look at what changes after your first action. 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.
Try a more deliberate round
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Understand the aim
Checkmate the opposing king. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Keep the controls in easy reach.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
How to use the controls
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Put the rules into context
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.
Check this before moving on
The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Further help with the game
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Chess Online?
For clarity: Checkmate the opposing king.
For my first round, how do I control Chess Online?
Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Chess Online?
The key detail is this: 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.
Before I begin, what format does Chess Online offer?
Keep this in mind: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Local / basic computer. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
On this playing page, where should I start with Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Select local play or basic computer.
On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for Chess Online?
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?
Keep this in mind: 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?
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.
