Online Chess FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
New to ChessWorld and unsure how to get started? This FAQ answers the most common questions about the playing interface, from making your first move to understanding different game statuses. Navigate the board with confidence and learn the mechanics of online play so you can enjoy your matches without technical confusion.
♟️ The Basics
Q. How do I move the pieces?
Make sure it’s your turn! If you have the White pieces at the start, move first. Click a piece (red border shows) then its destination square. To use drag-and-drop, go to My Stuff → My Moves. Press Confirm to complete your move.
Q. I’m sure I made a legal move, so why doesn’t the board accept it?
ChessWorld checks move legality and consequences. You cannot leave your King in check. If your King becomes exposed by your move, it will be rejected.
Q. How do I know when it’s my turn to move?
Your name appears at the bottom. Below it, look for: White to move or Black to move. You can also use the Play-Through board for clarity.
Q. How do I castle my King into safety?
If neither King nor Rook has moved, and the King is not in or crossing check, click the King and move it two squares left or right. The Rook follows automatically.
Q. How do I promote a pawn to a piece?
When your pawn reaches the 8th rank, a popup lets you choose from Queen, Rook, Bishop, or Knight. Queen is default. Select your choice and press Submit.
🏆 Playing on ChessWorld
Q. What’s so great about online correspondence chess?
You can play opponents worldwide at any time, without needing both players online simultaneously. It’s flexible and allows deeper, more thoughtful games.
Q. How can I claim a win?
The system detects checkmate automatically. If your opponent doesn’t move in time, a Claim Win button appears (unless they are on holiday). If neither moves, the game may be marked T-T (abandoned).
Q. How can I claim or offer a draw?
Use the Draw button during your move. If your opponent offers a draw, you’ll see a popup or email (if enabled). Accept or decline via buttons provided.
Q. How many games can I play?
Full Members may play unlimited games. Guest Members can play unlimited unrated games, but rated games have limits. Time limits still apply — avoid taking on more games than you can manage.
🛠️ Features & Boards
Q. Which Analysis Board should I choose?
We recommend the “Browser neutral – click and click” boards, which are fast and compatible across browsers. Other options are available under My Stuff → My Interface.
Q. Can I configure the Analysis board?
Yes! You can flip the board, show/hide coordinates, change move styles, store variations, and even print positions. See Preferences for details.
Q. Can I play Blitz or Chess960?
Blitz is not supported due to global time zones, but 1-day per move is available for faster play. Chess960 (Fischer Random) is supported in limited form for Members.
👉 Need more help? Visit the full General FAQ section or contact our HelpDesk.