Online Chess for Newbies – Getting Started FAQ

Welcome to ChessWorld! If you are a new member looking to find your footing, this Newbies FAQ is the perfect starting point. We answer your most urgent questions about finding opponents, joining your first tournament, and navigating the site's features, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable launch to your online chess journey.

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.