ChessMess Play free

Home › Guide › ChessMess FAQ

ChessMess FAQ

Answers to common questions about ChessMess: is it really free, do I need an account, how strong are the bots, how do I play friends, and more.

Updated · 2 min read

Short answers to the questions people ask most. Can't find yours? Start with Getting started.

Questions

Is ChessMess really free?
Yes. Bots, Coach mode, Game Review, the analysis board, playing friends and online play are all free, with no ads and no trial. The only paid thing is an optional early change of your display name or handle (one free change a year is included).
Do I need an account to play?
No. Guests can play every mode; games and settings are kept in the browser. A free account saves everything across devices, unlocks all worlds, boards and piece sets, and gives you an @handle for friends and challenges.
How strong are the bots?
There are 19 characters from about 250 to 2800 rating, plus full-strength Stockfish at about 3200 and Echo, an adaptive bot that adjusts after every game.
How do I play chess with a friend?
Open Play a friend, pick a time control and colour, and share the link, the 6-digit code or the QR code. Your friend joins in one tap without an account.
Is Game Review really unlimited?
Yes. Reviews run Stockfish 19 in your browser, so there is no limit on how many games you review.
Which chess engine does ChessMess use?
Stockfish 19, running in your browser through WebAssembly.
Does ChessMess work on phones?
Yes. The site works in any modern mobile browser and the board fits the screen.
Are puzzles and lessons available?
Rated puzzles and interactive lessons are coming soon.
Can I import games from other sites?
Yes. Paste a PGN into the analysis board to study any game.

Play free now — no sign-up needed

Start playingInvite a friend

Keep reading

Getting started with ChessMessWhat ChessMess is, what's free (everything), and how to play your first game against a bot, a friend or the coach in under a minute.Play chess against bots — 19 characters from 250 to 3200How the ChessMess bots work: human-like characters from beginner to grandmaster strength, an adaptive bot that grows with you, and full-strength Stockfish.Play chess with friends — invite by link, 6-digit code or QRCreate a game and invite a friend with a link, a 6-digit code or a QR code. No account needed. Or add friends by @handle and challenge them.A free alternative to Chess.com premium featuresUnlimited game reviews, coaching while you play, bots of every level and play-with-friends links — all free on ChessMess, with no ads and no trial.How to play chess with a friend online (no sign-up needed)Three ways to start a private chess game with a friend in seconds: send a link, read out a 6-digit code, or scan a QR code. Free, with clocks and rematches.