Free chess

Play chess against the computer

Pick a level and start. Level 1 is gentle enough for a first game, and level 5 is a full-strength engine.

A 3D chess game in your browser. Play the computer on five levels, play a friend on the same phone, or solve the daily mate puzzle. Free, no account.

Play chess vs computer

Works on phones, tablets and computers. Nothing to install.

The five levels

Choose the one that feels fair. If you win three games in a row, move up.

1
KittenMakes lots of mistakes. Good if: brand new to chess, or a young child.

Take what it hangs. It often leaves pieces undefended, so check every move whether a piece can be captured for free.

2
PuppyPlays casually. Good if: you know the rules and have played a few games.

It spots simple threats but misses two-move ideas. Practice forks and pins here.

3
AlleyA solid club player. Good if: you play regularly and want a fair game.

It rarely gives pieces away. Win by building a better position, not by waiting for a blunder.

4
HunterStrong and patient. Good if: you have a lot of games behind you.

Be careful with your king and avoid loose pieces. It punishes every small slip.

5
LegendFull strength engine. Good if: you want to see how good you can get.

Treat it as a teacher. Replay your losses and find the move where the game turned.

Which level should I pick?

Tell us how much chess you have played.

Play now, then pick the level in the game

Tips for beating the computer

  • Check for free pieces. The lower levels leave pieces undefended. Before each move, ask what you can capture for free.
  • Watch your own pieces. Every time you move, check that nothing of yours is left hanging.
  • Trade when you are ahead. Swapping pieces makes a lead bigger.
  • Learn from losses. After a game, find the move where it turned.

Learn and practice

How to play chessBeginner guideHow pieces moveInteractiveChess puzzlesSharpen your tactics3D chessAbout the game

Questions

Can I play chess against the computer for free?

Yes. Cats vs Dogs Chess is free in your browser, with no account and no download. You pick a level from 1 to 5 and which side to play.

How strong is the computer?

It runs Stockfish, a top chess engine, with five levels. Level 1 plays loosely and makes many mistakes. Level 5 plays at full strength and will beat almost everyone.

Can I undo a move?

Yes. You can undo moves and ask for a hint about where a piece can go.

Can I play against a friend instead?

Yes. There is a pass-the-phone mode for two players on one device.

Does it work on a phone?

Yes. It is built for phones first. Tap a piece to see where it can go, then tap a square.