Online Chess for Newbies – Getting Started FAQ

Welcome to ChessWorld.net! If you’re brand new, this page will walk you through the basics — from making your first move and finding opponents, to joining tournaments, handling notifications, and deciding if Full Membership is right for you.

Q. I'm new here, how do I start playing?

Use Join Games → Suggest Opponent (one suggestion at a time) or Suggest Variety (five suggestions). Choose time limits, color, and click Choose when ready.

Q. How do I make a move?

Click the piece → click destination square → click Confirm. Use Undo if needed. Change style under My Stuff → My Moves to Drag and Drop if you prefer.

Q. How do I move between games?

Use the Next button to go to the next game waiting for your move. Use Skip to bypass a game.

Q. How many games can I play?

Full Members: unlimited games, tournaments, and up to 10 teams. Guests: limited games, except in Guest Welcoming Tournaments.

Q. Can I play rated games?

Full Members: yes, always. Guest Members: only in Welcoming Tournaments or games with Welcomers.

Q. How will I know when it’s my move?

ChessWorld emails you each time your opponent moves. Ensure your email is valid under My Stuff → My Email.

Q. Why can’t I see my game when I log in?

If you’re only in one game and it’s not your turn, no board appears. Play several games so at least one is usually active on login.

Q. Can I choose specific opponents?

Full Members: yes, via Join Games → Search by Details. Guests: use Suggest Opponent, Suggest Variety, or Quick List.

Q. Can I send invitations?

Full Members: yes, via Invitation links. Guests: only to your Welcomer. All Members: email invites available via Join Games → Invite Friends.

Q. What is a Welcoming Tournament?

Special rated tournaments for Guests: 4-player All-play-All (6 games, 3-day control) or 10-player Invitation (18 games, 7-day control).

Q. Can I join more than one Welcoming Tournament?

Usually only one. Occasionally, extra tournaments are offered at ChessWorld’s discretion.

Q. Can I browse games without playing?

Yes — visit Community → Members Playing Now to watch live games, or explore FAQ/help pages.

Q. Why is my email required?

For registration confirmation, move notifications, and password recovery. Update under My Stuff → My Email.

Q. Can I use assistance like books or engines?

Engines: prohibited. Opening books and written references: allowed, as in traditional correspondence chess.

Q. Can I play in real-time?

No. However, if both players are online simultaneously, moves may be exchanged quickly. Play like the Masters is also available for rapid training.

Q. What is a Referrer and can I change it?

A Referrer is credited with 2 free months when you become Full Member. You can change Referrer via HelpDesk before upgrading.

Q. How can I remove the introductory video?

Go to My Stuff → My Moves and change Preferred move score option from “very shorthand PGN” to another choice.

Q. How do I close my account?

Visit My Stuff → My Email, delete your email, replace with *, and press Submit. This prevents further contact and closes your account.

Q. How do I upgrade to Full Membership?

Click My Stuff → My Subscription. Pay via PayPal or RBS WorldPay for 1 year (no auto-renewal). Direct payment options also available.

Q. Is it worth joining as a Full Member?

If you want unlimited games/tournaments and premium features, yes. Guests can still enjoy much, but Full Membership expands your options.