BrainGamesPLAY · LEARN · TRY AGAIN
Chess for Beginners: Play Against the Computer
Learn how to start a chess game, choose a bot level and practice safe moves with free browser chess.
Play nowYour first game
Choose Easy and White for your first game. White moves first, so you can practice an opening without waiting for the computer. Tap a piece to see legal destination squares, then tap a highlighted square to move. The aim is checkmate: attack the enemy king so that it has no legal escape. Capturing the most pieces alone does not end the game.
Build a simple opening
Start by contesting the center with a pawn, then develop a knight or bishop. Try to bring several pieces into the game before moving one piece repeatedly. When castling is legal, it can help move your king away from the center. Avoid bringing your queen out early just to chase a pawn if the opponent can develop pieces while attacking it.
Check before you move
Ask three questions: Is my king under attack? What did the opponent’s last move threaten? Will my chosen piece be safe on its new square? If you are in check, you must escape it by moving the king, blocking the attack or capturing the attacker when legal. You cannot ignore check to make an unrelated move.
Practice with a purpose
Use Undo to explore a different decision after a mistake. Play one game where your goal is simply to avoid leaving pieces undefended. Afterward, choose one moment to review instead of trying to remember every move. The local game rating measures outcomes on this website; it is not an official chess rating.