Play Chess Against the Computer — Free, No Sign-Up

Play chess against the computer for free, right in your browser. There is nothing to download and no account to create: choose a level, pick White, Black or a random color and start playing. Once the page has loaded, games against the computer also work offline.

The computer is Stockfish, one of the strongest chess engines, set to 10 levels from beginner (level 1, about 400) to master (level 10, about 2900). For an opponent that plays more like a person, switch to the human-like Maia bots, trained on real games of players rated 1100 to 1900. Or pick one of 16 computer characters, each with its own style and favorite openings — from kid-friendly Lily, Kitty the cat and Shelly the turtle up to Queen Aurora at full strength.

Stuck? Ask for a hint, take back a move or turn on the evaluation bar. You can also play Chess960, have the computer start a piece down (odds) and review every finished game move by move with the engine.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to play chess against the computer?

Yes. Every level, character and feature on this page is free, with no ads and no limit on games, hints or takebacks.

Do I need an account to play the computer?

No. Open the page and play: no sign-up, no email and no download. An account is optional and free.

How strong is level 10?

Level 10 is Stockfish at full skill, thinking 2 seconds per move: roughly 2900 rating, stronger than the best human players. Each level is about 200–400 points stronger than the one below, and levels 1–3 sometimes play a random move so beginners can win.

Can I play as Black?

Yes. In the game setup choose White, Black or a random color. You can also set up any position in the board editor and play it out against the computer.

Can I take back moves?

Yes, as many as you like. Takeback undoes your last move and the computer's reply. The hint button shows the best move as an arrow, and the result screen shows how many hints and takebacks you used.

Can kids play chess against the computer?

Yes. Levels 1 and 2 and friendly characters like Lily, Kitty and Shelly are made for young beginners, and they chat and cheer during the game. Kids' Corner adds short lessons, mini-games and puzzles for children.

Keep learning

Play chess

Explore Chessyo