Complete guides and free tutorials to take you from absolute beginner to confident player. Written by people who actually play.
▶ Play nowNever played chess before? No problem. This guide teaches everything you need to get started: the board, how each piece moves, special moves and checkmate.
The 10 most important openings for beginners, with the first moves explained, the core principles and which one to pick for your style.
Everything you need to know about the official FIDE rules, in plain language: moves, special moves, how a game ends and draws.
The most famous four-move checkmate in chess. How to deliver it, how to defend against it, and why it only works on unsuspecting beginners.
The L-shaped move, jumping over pieces, forks and tactical patterns. Everything about the most unpredictable and powerful piece on the board.
Chess time controls explained. The differences, the rules and which one to choose based on your level and goals.