Get started in 3 steps
- Find an opponent: Choose your time control and game preferences, then look for an opponent. Waiting time depends on the players online.
- Camera and microphone: Manage camera and microphone permissions, confirm that you are ready and begin the game.
- Play: The timed game begins. When it ends, ask for a rematch or look for a new opponent.
What happens behind the scenes
- Video and audio: Depending on the connection, video and audio are sent directly or through secure relay infrastructure. Normal calls are not automatically recorded. User-triggered moderation evidence and clip features requiring explicit consent are exceptions. Match clips require both players to enable recording consent. See the Privacy Policy for details.
- Game rules and clocks: Legal moves and the game clock are checked on the server. These controls do not guarantee that all cheating or connection interruptions can be prevented.
- Rating: Ratings use Glicko-2. Who is available as an opponent depends on the players searching at the time.
Five quick-match games
The web lobby offers Classic Chess, Fischer 960, Dice Chess, Crown Hold and backgammon with video. The Android and iOS apps offer matchmaking for Classic Chess, Fischer 960 and Dice Chess.
Time controls
- Bullet: 1+0, 1+1 or 2+1. For players who like to move fast.
- Blitz: 3+0, 3+2 or 5+3. Short games that still leave time to think.
- Rapid: 10+0, 10+5, 15+10 or 30+0. For players who want more time to think and talk.
Choose your time control in the lobby. For example, "5+3" means 5 minutes per player plus 3 seconds added after each move.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my internet drops?
Check your connection and return to the game. Watch the connection status and countdown on the game screen; the game may be lost if the reconnect deadline or your chess clock expires.
How do I play with a friend?
Create a private room in the lobby with your free account and share its code or link with your friend, who also needs a free account. The game starts when your friend joins.
Why does video sometimes struggle to connect?
Restrictive networks and device permissions can prevent video from connecting. Relay infrastructure (TURN) can help, but a connection is not guaranteed on every network.