THE PLAYBOOK · ZZBSDZ
Learn the rules of Chess Online
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Chess Online. Checkmate the opposing king. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Look at what changes after your first action.
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
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Checkmate the opposing king. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
From the start of a round
- 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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Follow the example
Castling cannot pass through an attacked square. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the controls nearby.
An important reminder
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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
More answers before you play
When I return, what is the goal of Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Checkmate the opposing king.
On this playing page, how do I control Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: Tap a piece and target; choose a promotion piece when needed.
For my first round, what example helps explain Chess Online?
The key detail is this: Castling cannot pass through an attacked square.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Chess Online?
Keep this in mind: The computer is a small search opponent, not a rated engine.
For my first round, what format does Chess Online offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.