Play Chess Against the Computer: Levels, Hints and Tips
Play chess against the computer free in your browser: pick Easy, Normal or Hard, play White or Black, use hints and undo, and learn how to beat each level.
You can play a full game of chess against the computer right in your browser, on a 3D board, with nothing to download. Here is how the levels work and how to get the most out of practicing against them.
Choosing a level
Easy plays like a beginner: it looks only a move ahead and often misses things, so it’s good for learning the rules and practicing checkmates.
Normal sees short tactics a few moves deep, like forks and simple combinations.
Hard thinks for a second or two each move and punishes loose pieces. Expect a real fight.
Start a new game to pick a level and whether you play White, Black or a random side. Playing Black turns the board around.
Tools while you play
Tap a piece to see where it can move, then tap a square, or drag the piece there.
Hint shows the move the computer would play in your place.
Undo takes back your last move and the computer’s reply, so you can try another idea.
You can offer a draw, claim one after a threefold repetition or 50 quiet moves, or resign.
How to beat Easy and Normal
Develop your knights and bishops, take the center with pawns and castle early.
Before every move, look at what the computer’s last move attacks.
Count attackers and defenders before you capture or leave a piece where it can be taken.
Once you’re ahead, trade pieces: the endgame is easier with fewer pieces on the board.
How to beat Hard
Play solid, well-protected positions rather than quick attacks; Hard sees short tactics well.
Avoid pieces with no defenders, and watch for checks that also attack something else.
Long-term plans, like a passed pawn or a weak square in its camp, are where you can outplay it.
Use undo and hints to study the positions where you went wrong.