Chess Games

Chess Games Live Play.

Chess, a game once played only by Kings and people of nobility, later became available to people of all classes. It is believed by some historians that Chess originated in India and other historians believe the game may have originated in China. Eventually, Chess caught on in Persia (today’s Iran) and then later in Europe. Today, the game of Chess, which may be played on a table board or online, is played by people from all over the world. You may play Chess on gamesliveplay.com with other players or challenge Paper Man, a robot, and win points!. Play Chess Games Online on the most popular website GamesLivePlay.Com for free online.! GamesLivePlay works on your mobile, tablet, or computer. Play now!

Chess Games

The Premier Online Chess Battleground!

Play a friendly chess game online, or compete against other strong chess players. Many ways to crush your opponent and improve your chess skills, for FREE. Tournaments, teams, ladder, league, chess tactics, puzzles and more. You'll enjoy playing chess online — it's a promise! You choose how often to move, no need to finish your chess games in one sitting — check back whenever you have time to play online, today or tomorrow. Play several chess games online simultaneously, try different strategies and chess openings. No additional software to download, easy navigation, free registration, online chess at its best!

Chess Game Features!

Chess, a two-player strategy board game, involves 16 pieces per player on a checkered board with 64 squares. The objective is to checkmate the opponent's king, achieved when it's under immediate attack (in "check") and cannot escape capture.

  • Voice Chat

    Voice Chat.

    Talk To Each Other While Playing. Have Fun With Your Family & Friends.

  • Multiplayer

    4 Player & Variants

    Play With 4 Players In The Online Variants Mode.

  • Quick Mode

    Quick Mode!

    A Fast Game To Finish Quickly With The Fun Of The Full Length Multiplayer Game!

  • Tournament Mode

    Tournament Mode

    Exciting 4 Player Game With 6X Winning Rewards!

Where To Play Chess Online.

Play Chess Online for all levels. Hints for beginners. Thousands of players online now..

crown No-1 Choice

Chess GLP

Chess Games Live Play (Chess GLP) is an online platform designed for chess enthusiasts to engage in real-time matches. It offers a variety of game modes, including blitz, rapid, and classical, catering to players of all skill levels. The platform’s intuitive interface supports seamless gameplay on web and mobile devices. Chess GLP provides features like live game analysis, interactive tutorials, and puzzles to enhance skills. Players can join tournaments or challenge friends, fostering a competitive community. Free accounts offer basic access, while premium memberships unlock advanced tools like detailed statistics and coaching, making Chess GLP a dynamic hub for live chess.
crown No-2 Choice

Chess.com

Chess.com, founded in 2007, is the world’s leading online chess platform, connecting millions of players globally. It offers diverse game modes, including bullet, blitz, and variants like Chess960, catering to all skill levels. The user-friendly interface and mobile app ensure seamless access. Chess.com provides robust learning tools, such as puzzles, grandmaster-led videos, and game analysis, fostering skill development. Its vibrant community thrives through forums, clubs, and events like Titled Tuesday. Major tournaments, including the Chess.com Rapid World Championship, attract top talent. Free accounts offer ample features, while premium memberships unlock advanced tools, making Chess.com a vital hub for chess enthusiasts.
crown No-3 Choice

Lichess.org

Lichess.org, launched in 2010, is a free, open-source online chess platform renowned for its accessibility and robust features. Catering to players of all levels, it offers diverse game modes, including bullet, blitz, classical, and variants like Crazyhouse and Chess960. Its clean interface and mobile app ensure seamless gameplay. Lichess provides extensive learning tools, such as puzzles, coordinate training, and game analysis, all freely available. The platform hosts tournaments, including the prestigious Lichess Titled Arena, attracting top players. With a strong community focus, Lichess supports forums and team events, fostering engagement. Entirely ad-free and donation-supported, Lichess remains a top destination for chess enthusiasts worldwide.
crown No-4 Choice

Chess24

Chess24, launched in 2014, is a prominent online chess platform offering a dynamic experience for players of all levels. It features diverse game modes, including blitz, rapid, and classical, alongside variants like Chess960. Known for its sleek interface and mobile app, Chess24 provides seamless gameplay. The platform excels in educational content, offering video series, interactive lessons, and game analysis by top grandmasters. It hosts major events like the Magnus Carlsen Chess Tour, attracting elite players. Chess24’s vibrant community engages through forums and live broadcasts. While free accounts provide access, premium memberships unlock advanced tools, making Chess24 a key destination for chess enthusiasts.
crown No-5 Choice

FIDE Online Arena

FIDE Online Arena, launched by the World Chess Federation, is the official online chess platform for rated games recognized by FIDE. Catering to players of all levels, it offers formats like blitz, rapid, and classical, with a focus on competitive play. Its intuitive interface and mobile app ensure accessibility. Players can earn official FIDE online ratings, unique to the platform. Educational tools include puzzles and game analysis, while tournaments, such as titled events, attract strong competition. The platform supports a global community with forums and leaderboards. Free accounts provide basic access, but premium memberships unlock advanced features, making FIDE Online Arena a prestigious chess hub.
crown No-6 Choice

Internet Chess Club

The Internet Chess Club (ICC), established in 1995, is one of the oldest online chess platforms, renowned for its competitive environment. Catering to players of all levels, it offers game modes like blitz, bullet, and classical, plus variants such as Chess960. Its interface, accessible via desktop or mobile apps, supports seamless gameplay. ICC provides learning tools, including video lessons, puzzles, and game analysis. The platform hosts frequent tournaments, attracting titled players and enthusiasts. A vibrant community engages through forums and team matches. While free trials are available, premium memberships unlock full features, making ICC a historic cornerstone for online chess.
crown No-7 Choice

GameKnot

GameKnot, founded in 2000, is a popular online chess platform emphasizing correspondence chess for players of all skill levels. It offers flexible time controls, allowing games to span days or weeks, alongside faster formats like blitz. The platform’s clean interface and mobile compatibility ensure easy access. GameKnot provides learning tools, including puzzles, game analysis, and a database of annotated games, fostering skill improvement. Its active community engages through forums, teams, and tournaments, including rated events. Free accounts offer robust features, while premium memberships unlock advanced options like unlimited games and deeper analysis. GameKnot remains a trusted destination for chess enthusiasts, particularly for turn-based play.
crown No-8 Choice

SparkChess

SparkChess, developed by Media Division, is an engaging online chess platform designed for players of all levels. It offers various game modes, including blitz, classical, and puzzles, with a focus on accessibility through its intuitive web and mobile interfaces. SparkChess features unique animated characters and customizable boards, enhancing the playing experience. Educational tools include interactive lessons, AI opponents with adjustable difficulty, and game analysis to improve skills. The platform supports multiplayer games and occasional tournaments, fostering a welcoming community. Free accounts provide ample features, while premium versions unlock advanced opponents and analytics. SparkChess is a vibrant, user-friendly hub for casual and learning-focused chess enthusiasts.
crown No-9 Choice

ChessTempo

ChessTempo, launched in 2008, is a premier online chess platform focused on training and gameplay for players of all levels. It offers extensive tactical training with over 100,000 puzzles derived from real games, alongside endgame practice and opening repertoire tools using spaced repetition. Players can engage in live or correspondence chess, with post-game analysis powered by Stockfish. The platform’s database, exceeding 5 million games, supports opening and player research. Free accounts provide robust features, while premium memberships unlock advanced tools like custom puzzle sets and cloud engine analysis. ChessTempo’s mobile-friendly interface and community forums make it a top choice for chess improvement.
crown No-10 Choice

ChessKid

ChessKid, a child-friendly platform by Chess.com, is designed for young chess enthusiasts to learn and play in a safe, engaging environment. Launched to nurture junior players, it offers games in various formats, including blitz and puzzles, with a colorful, intuitive interface accessible on web and mobile. ChessKid provides educational tools like interactive lessons, videos by coaches, and adaptive puzzles to build skills. Parents can monitor progress and ensure online safety with robust controls. The platform hosts kid-only tournaments and team events, fostering a fun community. Free accounts offer ample features, while premium memberships unlock advanced content, making ChessKid ideal for young learners.

Know About Chess Game Online


Chess, a strategic game tracing its origins to the 6th century, has evolved dramatically with the rise of online platforms, transforming how players engage with this timeless pastime. Online chess breaks geographical barriers, allowing enthusiasts to compete globally at any time. Popular platforms like Chess GLP, Chess.com, Lichess, and Chess24 offer intuitive interfaces for players of all levels, supporting real-time matches, correspondence games, and varied time controls.

These platforms enhance learning with rich resources: interactive tutorials, grandmaster-led video lessons, and tactical puzzles sharpen skills, while game analysis tools powered by engines help players dissect mistakes and refine strategies. Online chess also opens doors to high-level competition, such as the Chess.com Rapid World Championship, making elite play accessible to amateurs.

Beyond gameplay, these sites foster vibrant communities through forums, clubs, and live tournament broadcasts, building camaraderie among players. Mobile apps further boost convenience, putting chess in your pocket for practice anytime, anywhere. By blending competition, education, and social interaction, online chess preserves the game’s heritage while propelling it into the digital era, making it more engaging and accessible than ever.


How To Play Chess Online?


Online chess brings the timeless strategy game to your fingertips, letting you challenge opponents worldwide from home. To get started, you’ll need a device—like a computer, tablet, or smartphone—and a reliable internet connection. Choose a platform such as Chess GLP, Chess.com, Lichess, or Chess24, each offering distinct features for players of all levels. Most require an account to unlock progress tracking and extra tools, though guest play is often an option.

After signing up, pick a game mode: face human opponents, test your skills against AI bots, or watch live matches. To play others, invite friends with a link or match with strangers by selecting a time control—bullet (super fast), blitz (quick), rapid (moderate), or classical (slow). The virtual board is user-friendly; move pieces by clicking or dragging, and the platform ensures all moves are legal.

Enhance your experience with built-in features. Chat with opponents, analyze games post-match, or dive into learning resources like tutorials, puzzles, and videos from top players. These tools help sharpen your skills over time.

Online chess also fosters community and competition. Join tournaments, connect with clubs, or earn ratings and titles based on your performance. Combining accessibility, education, and global interaction, online chess makes mastering the game both fun and rewarding—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player.


Top Features Of Online Chess Game


Online chess games have transformed how players experience this timeless game, blending convenience with powerful tools for growth and engagement. Here are the standout features:

  • Global Accessibility: Play anytime, anywhere with an internet connection, removing the limitations of physical boards or local opponents.
  • Diverse Opponents: Connect with players worldwide, matching you with peers at your skill level or challenging you against stronger adversaries, exposing you to varied strategies.
  • Advanced Analysis Tools: Post-game reviews powered by AI engines highlight mistakes and suggest better moves, making improvement tangible and data-driven.
  • Educational Resources: Access tutorials, puzzles, and grandmaster videos, offering structured learning for beginners and advanced players alike.
  • Competitive Tournaments: Regular online events, often with cash prizes, let you test your skills in a high-stakes, organized setting.
  • Social Interaction: Chat features, forums, and clubs foster a community where players discuss tactics, share games, and build friendships.
  • Chess Variants: Options like Chess960 or Crazyhouse keep the game exciting by introducing fresh twists to traditional rules.

These features combine to make online chess a dynamic platform. Whether you’re a casual player seeking fun or a serious competitor aiming to sharpen your skills, the accessibility, learning tools, and social connections elevate the experience beyond what traditional chess can offer.


Why Chess Game Online Is So Popular?


Online chess has surged in popularity by blending timeless strategy with modern convenience. The internet removes barriers like physical boards or finding local opponents, letting players connect globally anytime. Platforms such as Chess.com and Lichess provide user-friendly interfaces, mobile apps, and free access, welcoming everyone from novices to experts.

Community and Competition:

The social draw is immense. Online platforms feature forums, clubs, and live chats, building connections among players. Friendships form, rivalries spark, and tournaments—casual or elite—offer excitement and achievement, keeping players hooked.

Learning Made Easy:

Educational tools amplify its appeal. Tutorials, puzzles, and AI-powered analysis help users sharpen their skills. Grandmaster-led lessons reveal advanced tactics, while game reviews and progress tracking fuel improvement. This focus on growth resonates with players of all levels.

Intellectual Allure :

Chess’s demand for strategy, foresight, and adaptability appeals to a world that values mental agility. Its intellectual challenge, paired with the ease of online access, creates a perfect mix. Technology enhances the experience without altering the game’s core, merging tradition with innovation.

In short, online chess thrives due to its accessibility, vibrant community, rich learning resources, and enduring intellectual charm. It’s a classic game reimagined for the digital age, captivating millions worldwide.


Top Tips And Tricks Of Online Chess Game


Online chess combines classic strategy with digital tools. Here’s how to excel:

  • Use Analysis Tools: After each game, review your moves with built-in engines like Stockfish. Spot errors in your openings or endgames and adjust your approach.
  • Practice Smart: Play against AI to target weak spots—whether it’s nailing the Queen’s Gambit or surviving tricky endgames. Focused practice beats random games.
  • Master Time Control: Online games often use clocks (e.g., 5+3 or 10+0). Move quickly in familiar positions to save time for critical moments later.
  • Stay Focused: Playing online tempts distractions—other tabs, notifications, or noise. Close them out. Treat every match like a tournament.
  • Learn from Others: Join online communities on platforms like Chess.com or Lichess. Watch top players, discuss strategies, or follow grandmaster streams for fresh ideas.

Success in online chess hinges on blending these tools with solid play. Analyze relentlessly—post-game breakdowns reveal more than wins or losses. Time management keeps you sharp under pressure; a blunder from rushing is worse than a slow loss. Distractions kill momentum, so create a quiet space. Finally, tap into the global chess network—watching a pro dismantle an opponent can spark your next breakthrough. With these tips, you’ll sharpen your skills and climb the ranks faster than ever.


Top Website Or Platform Where To Play Chess Online


01. Chess Games Live Play (Chess GLP) :


Chess Games Live Play (Chess GLP), also known as Chess Live, is a mobile chess application available on Android, designed for casual and competitive players seeking an accessible online chess experience. Developed by Italic Games, it emphasizes simplicity, vibrant graphics, and free gameplay, making it a popular choice for Android users. By 2025, it has garnered significant downloads, though its user base is smaller than giants like Chess.com or Lichess.

The app supports both single-player and two-player modes. In single-player mode, players can challenge an AI with five difficulty levels, powered by a robust chess engine, offering a scalable challenge for beginners to advanced players. Two-player mode enables online matches against friends or random opponents, with configurable player names and time controls (e.g., 1, 3, or 5 minutes). Features like undo/redo enhance gameplay flexibility, though online play was removed in a June 2024 update, prompting user backlash and uninstalls due to its prior popularity.

Chess GLP boasts gorgeous graphics and sound effects, creating an engaging experience. Its interface is intuitive, with a clean design that appeals to casual players. However, user reviews highlight issues like freezing during games and a lack of updates to restore online functionality or add features like friend lists and rankings. Some players suggest improvements such as customizable timers and opponent consent for move undos to enhance competitiveness.

Unlike Chess.com’s freemium model with premium subscriptions or Lichess’s open-source approach, Chess GLP is entirely free, with no registration required. However, it lacks advanced training tools like puzzles or analysis boards, limiting its appeal for serious players. Its focus remains on quick, fun matches, making it ideal for mobile users seeking light chess entertainment.


02.Chess.com :


Chess.com is the world’s leading online chess platform, serving over 200 million registered users and 11 million daily active players as of June 2025. Founded in 2005 by Erik Allebest and Jarom Severson, it relaunched in 2007 to create a vibrant chess community.

Chess.com provides a comprehensive chess experience with diverse gameplay options, including live matches (blitz, rapid, bullet, and daily chess) and variants like Chess960, Crazyhouse, and Bughouse. Players can challenge friends, random opponents, or customizable bots. Its mobile apps (iOS and Android) include voice mode and features like programmable moves, though some users note occasional bugs in puzzle interfaces.

The platform excels in education, offering interactive puzzles endorsed by GM Hikaru Nakamura, lessons by coaches like IM Anna Rudolf, and integration with Chessable for science-backed learning. Game analysis tools help players review moves and improve strategies. Chess.com also runs ChessKid.com, a safe platform for children with over 10 million users.

Major events include the Speed Chess Championship, Titled Tuesday (won 77 times by Nakamura), and PogChamps for content creators. The 2025 Freestyle Chess Grand Slam and Bughouse Championship highlight its innovative tournaments. In 2022, Chess.com acquired Play Magnus Group, solidifying its dominance over competitors like Lichess.org.

Despite its success, Chess.com faced controversies, notably the 2022 Carlsen-Niemann cheating scandal and a Russian ban after criticizing the Ukraine invasion. With over 650 remote employees across 60 countries, Chess.com fosters a global community emphasizing kindness and learning. Accessible via web, and mobile, it remains a cultural and educational force in chess, driving engagement through events, tools, and a welcoming environment.


03. Lichess.org :


Lichess.org is a leading online chess platform, renowned for its free, open-source model and ad-free experience. Launched in 2010 by French programmer Thibault Duplessis, Lichess has grown into a global hub for chess enthusiasts, boasting millions of users and hosting over 10 million games daily as of June 2025. Operated by a non-profit, it relies on community donations, making it a key competitor to Chess.com.

Lichess offers a wide range of gameplay options, including bullet, blitz, rapid, classical, and correspondence chess, alongside variants like Chess960, Crazyhouse, Antichess, and Horde. Players can challenge opponents, play against AI, or join simultaneous exhibitions (simuls) with titled players. Its clean, intuitive interface is accessible via web browsers, iOS, and Android apps, supporting 130 languages for global reach.

The platform excels in educational tools, offering unlimited free puzzles, interactive lessons, and an opening explorer with over 5 million games. Lichess’s analysis board provides Stockfish-powered game reviews, helping players of all levels improve. Its “Learn” section includes coordinate training and endgame studies, while the “Practice” mode targets specific skills.

Lichess hosts numerous tournaments, including the weekly Titled Arena for professionals, the Lichess Liga (team-based), and variant-specific events like the Crazyhouse World Championship. The 2024 Lichess World Rapid & Blitz Team Tournament showcased its ability to attract top players like Magnus Carlsen. Community engagement thrives through forums, blogs, and live streams, with features like team battles and Swiss tournaments fostering collaboration.

As an open-source project, Lichess’s code is publicly available, encouraging contributions from developers worldwide. Its commitment to privacy—avoiding trackers and ads—sets it apart. Despite lacking the commercial scale of Chess.com, Lichess’s donation-based model supports a dedicated team and robust servers. With features like anonymous play, a puzzle storm mode, and a vibrant community, Lichess remains a favorite for casual and serious players alike, offering a high-quality, accessible chess experience without cost.


04. Chess24 :


Chess24 was an online chess platform launched in 2014 by German GM Jan Gustafsson and Enrique Guzman, offering a rich environment for playing, learning, and watching chess. Acquired by Chess.com in 2022 and shut down on January 31, 2024, it was known for its premium educational content and tournament coverage, serving millions until its closure.

The platform supported online play against users or bots, with time controls like blitz, rapid, and Chess960, alongside tournaments like the Banter Blitz Cup and Magnus Carlsen Invitational. Its interface was praised for tournament monitoring, featuring live broadcasts with commentary from players like Yasser Seirawan and Peter Svidler. Chess24’s mobile apps (iOS, Android) offered offline play, over 80,000 puzzles, and video series by Magnus Carlsen and Vishy Anand.

Chess24’s cloud-based analysis tool allowed users to study games, annotate positions, and access a database of master games. Premium members enjoyed deeper Stockfish analysis and exclusive events like Banter Blitz, where they played alongside top players. The platform’s educational videos were considered superior to rivals Chess.com and Lichess, though its playing experience was less favored.

Major events included the 2019–2020 Banter Blitz Cup (won by Alireza Firouzja) and the 2020 Magnus Carlsen Invitational, pivotal during COVID-19 lockdowns. Chess24 also hosted the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour, focusing on Chess960, though its 2025 Delhi event was canceled due to lack of sponsors.

In 2019, Chess24 merged with Play Magnus AS, making its founders key shareholders. Chess.com’s 2022 acquisition led to its integration into the Chess.com family, but community backlash followed its closure, with users lamenting the loss of its clean interface and commentary quality. Many migrated to Lichess, criticizing Chess.com’s monopolistic approach.

Headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, Chess24 had a small team and a global reach, supporting 10 languages. While it no longer operates, its legacy in tournament broadcasts and educational tools remains influential.


05. FIDE Online Arena :


FIDE Online Arena, launched in 2013 by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and managed by World Chess, is the only online chess platform offering official FIDE ratings and titles. With over 730,000 registered users by 2023, it provides a competitive environment for players worldwide, accessible via web, iOS, and Android apps, supporting bullet, blitz, rapid, and correspondence chess.

The platform operates on a freemium model: free accounts allow casual games and up to five daily puzzles, while PRO subscriptions unlock FIDE-rated tournaments, unlimited puzzles, and masterclasses with elite players. Players can earn FIDE-recognized online titles—Arena Candidate Master (ACM, 1100 rating), Arena FIDE Master (AFM, 1400), Arena International Master (AIM, 1700), and Arena Grandmaster (AGM, 2000)—displayed on official FIDE profiles. These titles, while distinct from over-the-board (OTB) titles, signal dedication but lack the prestige of traditional GM or IM titles.

Features include customizable boards, AI-trained bots for practice, and offline play. Rated tournaments affect FIDE Online Arena ratings, while World Chess-rated events are open to all. The platform’s anti-cheating policies align with FIDE standards, though user feedback highlights issues like lag, timer bugs, and sandbagging (rating manipulation), leading some to prefer Lichess.

Tournaments are central, with PRO members accessing FIDE-rated events and all users joining World Chess-rated competitions. Monthly masterclasses and a puzzle-solving mode enhance learning, though additional learning tools require payment. The platform’s low player base can make matchmaking challenging, especially for rated games.

Despite its official status, FIDE Online Arena faces criticism for its titles’ perceived lack of prestige and technical issues, with some users calling it a “glorified” version of other platforms’ ratings. Still, it offers a unique opportunity to earn a FIDE ID and online titles, appealing to intermediate players


06. Internet Chess Club :


The Internet Chess Club (ICC), launched in 1992 as the first Internet chess server, is a commercial platform dedicated to chess and its variants. Initially developed by Michael Moore and Richard Nash as the Internet Chess Server (ICS), it used telnet and ASCII text displays, facing early issues like illegal moves and server bugs. By late 1992, Daniel Sleator overhauled the code, introducing Elo ratings and graphical interfaces, improving stability. In 1995, ICC became a paid service, charging annual memberships but offering free access to Grandmasters and International Masters. This commercialization led to the creation of the Free Internet Chess Server (FICS) by dissatisfied programmers.

By 2005, ICC had over 30,000 subscribing members, making it the largest pay-to-play chess server. It acquired the World Chess Network and Chess Live in 2007, merging them into World Chess Live, which fully integrated into ICC by 2012. ICC also supported the Spanish portal JaqueMate.org until its closure in 2013. The platform offers live chess (bullet, blitz, rapid), variants like Chess960 and Bughouse, and USCF-rated online tournaments. Members can access game libraries, recorded lectures, and private lessons, with grandmaster commentary on Chess.FM and simultaneous exhibitions.

Once the premier destination for playing against titled players, ICC has been surpassed by Chess.com and Lichess due to its outdated interface and high membership costs. A 2024 redesign attempted to modernize the web client, but user feedback on platforms like Reddit criticized its clunky design, long matchmaking times, and errors, with features like chat rooms and simultaneous events diminished. Despite this, ICC’s partnership with the USCF and historical significance attract nostalgic players. Its courses and store have improved, but it struggles to compete with free platforms like Lichess.


07. GameKnot :


GameKnot, founded in 2000 in Sausalito, United States, is a leading online chess platform specializing in correspondence chess. With over a million registered users, it offers a free, browser-based experience, requiring no downloads, and supports players from beginners to grandmasters. The platform emphasizes flexible, turn-based gameplay, allowing moves over days, ideal for those with busy schedules.

GameKnot’s interface is user-friendly, featuring a robust chessboard praised for its reliability. Players can engage in friendly matches, compete in tournaments, ladders, and leagues, or join teams for collaborative play. The platform supports multiple simultaneous games, enabling users to experiment with strategies and openings. Its database, with over 800,000 games for 1.e4, surpasses some competitors, offering valuable insights for opening preparation.

Educational tools include daily chess puzzles, some derived from actual games, ensuring verified solutions. Tactics training and annotated games enhance learning, though premium membership is required for advanced features like feedback forums. Unlike Chess.com, GameKnot’s puzzles avoid timed ratings, focusing on real-game scenarios, which some users prefer for realistic training.

GameKnot operates on a freemium model: basic play is free, but premium subscriptions unlock additional tournaments and tools. Its community is active, with 913 players online at peak times, though some Reddit users note its dated interface and lack of live chess options like bullet or blitz. Critics argue it lags behind Chess.com’s live servers and Lichess’s open-source model, yet loyal users, some active for over 15 years, praise its simplicity and ad-free experience with subscriptions.

Despite competition from Chess.com and Lichess, GameKnot remains a top choice for correspondence chess, offering a focused, strategic experience. Its tournaments and team features foster a sense of community, while its puzzle system challenges players daily.


08. SparkChess :


SparkChess, developed by Armand Niculescu and launched in 2002 by Media Division SRL in Romania, is an award-winning online chess platform emphasizing accessibility and enjoyment for players of all skill levels. Unlike platforms designed solely for experts, SparkChess prioritizes fun with a user-friendly interface, vibrant graphics, and adaptive AI opponents, making it ideal for beginners, kids, and seasoned players. Available on web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Steam, it has garnered a loyal following, with millions of users by 2025.

The platform offers diverse gameplay modes, including casual, quick, or expert games against AI opponents with distinct personalities: Cody (beginner-friendly), Claire (intermediate), Boris (aggressive), and Guru (expert). Multiplayer mode allows challenges against friends or global players, with a child-safe chat system and PGN import/export for game analysis. SparkChess supports 2D, 3D, and fantasy boards, with premium features like a rotatable 3D board and enhanced visuals.

Educational tools are robust, featuring over 30 interactive lessons, 70+ puzzles, and an Openings Explorer with 100+ variations to master strategies. The Virtual Chess Coach provides move explanations, while visual aids highlight threats and opportunities. These tools cater to learners, with testimonials praising SparkChess for teaching kids and sharpening critical thinking.

Operating on a freemium model, SparkChess offers free play with a 2,000-point score limit, while Premium or Advanced Multiplayer subscriptions unlock unlimited games, advanced tools, and priority access. Pricing varies (e.g., $6.99 for SparkChess Pro on Google Play), but users note confusion over subscription-based upgrades versus one-time purchases.

Despite its strengths, SparkChess faces criticism for frequent paid updates and a smaller community compared to Chess.com or Lichess. Its focus on accessibility, however, makes it a favorite for casual players and educators, with Clever integration for classroom use.


09. ChessTempo :


ChessTempo, launched in 2008, is an online chess platform focused on training and skill improvement for players of all levels. With a freemium model, it offers free access to core features and premium subscriptions for advanced tools. Accessible via web and mobile apps (iOS, Android), ChessTempo emphasizes tactics, endgames, and openings, boasting over 100,000 tactical puzzles and 14,000 endgame positions, all derived from real games.

The platform supports both correspondence and live chess (bullet, blitz, rapid) against other users or bots with diverse opening repertoires. Rated games include post-game analysis powered by Stockfish, with premium members receiving custom tactic sets extracted from their games. The chess database, containing over 5 million games, features an opening explorer and advanced search by player, rating, or position, ideal for studying grandmaster games.

ChessTempo’s standout feature is its tactics training, offering over 80,000 puzzles with winning and defensive scenarios. Premium users can create custom sets targeting specific motifs (e.g., pins, forks) or past mistakes, using spaced repetition to prioritize weaknesses. Endgame training includes 3- to 7-piece positions, with premium members accessing more daily puzzles and custom sets. The “Guess the Move” mode lets users match master moves, enhancing strategic learning.

The Chess Books feature, launched in 2021, competes with Chessable, allowing users to buy digital books, create training materials, and share them with students. While less polished than Chessable, it leverages ChessTempo’s robust training tools. The platform also offers achievement badges to motivate users, particularly younger players, though some are premium-exclusive.

Despite its strengths, ChessTempo’s interface feels dated, and its smaller community can lead to longer matchmaking times compared to Chess.com or Lichess. Premium features, like cloud engine analysis with up to eight threads, enhance its appeal for serious players.


10. ChessKid :


ChessKid, an extension of Chess.com, is the world’s leading online chess platform for children, with over 10 million registered users by 2025. Launched to provide a safe, fun, and educational chess environment, it caters to kids, parents, and coaches, offering free and premium features via web, iOS, and Android apps. Its ad-free, child-safe design ensures no free-form chat and requires parental permission for friendships, prioritizing privacy and security.

The platform offers diverse gameplay, including slow and fast chess against friends, global kids, or 10 unique bots tailored to all skill levels. Over 500,000 games are played monthly by 200,000 active users. Kids can join tournaments or play offline, with features like the Star Wheel to earn rewards. ChessKid Adventure, a mobile-only app, adds a magical quest-based experience with 200+ mini-challenges, enhancing engagement through animated characters and collectible costumes.

Educational tools are robust, with over 350,000 puzzles (three free daily), interactive lessons, and videos teaching basic rules and advanced strategies. Puzzles focus on decision-making, while visual aids and dubbed tutorials (e.g., in Chinese on the website) support learning, though the iOS app lacks Chinese language support. The platform’s intuitive interface, praised by parents, helps kids improve critical thinking, math, and social skills.

ChessKid’s freemium model provides unlimited free games, with Gold memberships unlocking advanced tools like video lessons and game analysis. It supports schools through Clever integration and hosts events like the 2024 ChessKid National Festival, where over 400 kids competed in Charlotte, NC. Success stories include 8-year-old Ashwath Kaushik, who started on ChessKid and broke records by defeating a grandmaster.

While some users note occasional app bugs, ChessKid’s safe, engaging environment and community of 50,000 monthly players make it a top choice for young chess enthusiasts.


Frequently Asked Questions


What are the best platforms to play chess online?

Popular platforms include Chess.com, Lichess.org, ChessKid (for kids), ChessTempo, and FIDE Online Arena. Chess.com offers a freemium model with extensive features, while Lichess is free and open-source. ChessKid is ideal for children, and FIDE Online Arena provides official FIDE ratings.

Do I need to pay to play chess online?

Many platforms, like Lichess.org and ChessKid, offer free gameplay. Chess.com and ChessTempo have free basic features but require premium subscriptions for advanced tools like unlimited puzzles or in-depth analysis. FIDE Online Arena’s PRO membership unlocks rated tournaments.

Can I play chess online against a computer?

Yes, most platforms offer AI opponents. Chess.com has customizable bots, Lichess provides Stockfish-powered AIs, and SparkChess features adaptive bots like Cody (beginner) and Guru (expert). These are great for practice without human opponents.

What time controls are available for online chess?

Online platforms support various time controls: bullet (1-3 minutes), blitz (3-5 minutes), rapid (10-15 minutes), and correspondence (days per move). GameKnot excels in correspondence chess, while Chess.com and Lichess offer all formats.

Are there online chess tournaments?

Yes, platforms host tournaments. Chess.com runs Titled Tuesday and Speed Chess Championship, Lichess offers Titled Arena and Liga events, and FIDE Online Arena hosts FIDE-rated tournaments. ChessKid organizes kid-friendly events like the National Festival.

How can I improve my chess skills online?

Platforms provide puzzles, lessons, and analysis tools. ChessTempo offers over 100,000 tactics puzzles, Chess.com integrates Chessable’s spaced repetition, and Lichess has an opening explorer. SparkChess and ChessKid provide interactive lessons for beginners.

Is online chess safe for kids?

ChessKid is designed for children, with strict safety measures like no free-form chat and parental controls. SparkChess also offers a child-safe chat system, ensuring a secure environment for young players.

Can I earn official ratings online?

FIDE Online Arena is the only platform offering official FIDE online ratings and titles like Arena Grandmaster (AGM). Other platforms like Chess.com and Lichess provide internal ratings, which are widely respected but unofficial.

What are chess variants, and where can I play them?

Variants like Chess960, Crazyhouse, and Bughouse add unique rules to traditional chess. Lichess and Chess.com support multiple variants, with Lichess hosting events like the Crazyhouse World Championship.

Why was online play removed from some apps like Chess GLP?

Some apps, like Chess Games Live Play, removed online play due to technical issues or developer decisions, as seen in its June 2024 update. This can frustrate users, pushing them to platforms like Chess.com or Lichess for reliable online play.

Latest Articles

The Best Game In India For Play Online

The Best Game In India For Play Online

The online gaming industry in India has experienced unprecedented growth over the past decade, fueled by widespread internet…