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Chess Online: how a round works

Bring this focus to a round

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Keep the objective visible.

The purpose of your moves

Checkmate the opposing king. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

From the start of a round

  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.

How to interact with the game

Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

See the idea in action

Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.

A useful caution

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

Checkmate the opposing king.

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?

Keep this in mind: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.

For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?

The key detail is this: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.

As a new player, 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.

For a quick reminder, 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.

While learning, where should I start with Chess Online?

Select local play or basic computer.

For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Chess Online?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For this browser game, 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.

For this browser game, 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.