An Easy Flow in 3 Steps
- 🎯 Match: Pick your time control and hit "Play Random." Our algorithm finds a perfectly matched opponent in seconds.
- 📸 Turn On Your Camera: The moment you match, start the video chat, come face to face with your opponent and say hello.
- 🎲 Play and Have Fun: Let the real-time, timed battle begin. When the game ends, ask for a "Rematch" for revenge — or hit "Skip" to meet a new face.
🛠️ What Happens Behind the Scenes? (Tech Doesn't Have to Be Boring)
- 🎙️ Seamless Video and Audio: Streams flow directly between players (P2P) without passing through our servers. Latency is minimized and absolutely nothing is recorded. Your privacy is safe with us.
- 🕵️♂️ Zero Tolerance for Cheating: Every move and the chess clock are verified by our server within milliseconds. Disconnects or cheating software can't disturb the table.
- 📊 Fair Rating: Thanks to our robust Glicko-2 system, you face opponents who are neither too easy nor too hard. Every game is balanced and exciting.
Time Controls (Pick Your Mode)
- ⚡ Bullet (Lightning Speed): 1+0 or 2+1. For those who love the panic and play fast.
- 🚀 Blitz: 3+0, 3+2 or 5+0. The most popular, laughter-filled mode at the Rovian tables.
- ☕ Rapid (Relaxed Mode): 10+0 or 15+10. For those who want to sip their coffee and chat at length.
Note: the "3+2" mode gives you 3 minutes to start and adds a 2-second bonus to your clock with every move. Don't lose on time!
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my internet drops?
No panic! If you refresh and return within 15-30 seconds, the game continues where it left off. If you don't return, your opponent wins by forfeit so the table isn't kept waiting.
How do I play with a friend?
Super simple. Hit Create Arena in the lobby, then send the 4-digit private code or link to your friend on WhatsApp. The moment they click, they're in the seat across from you.
Why does video sometimes struggle to connect?
Strict school/workplace networks or tight firewalls sometimes try to block video. In those cases Rovian's smart fallback infrastructure (TURN) kicks in and rescues the connection for you.