White to move

Play Chess with a Friend Online

Play chess with a friend on the same device! Take turns making moves in this local multiplayer chess game.

Friend Mode Setup

  • Local Multiplayer: Both players use the same device, taking turns to make moves. Perfect for face-to-face chess games.
  • Turn-based Play: White moves first, then players alternate turns. The game shows whose turn it is at the top.
  • Opening Display: The current opening name is displayed below the board, helping players learn chess theory.
  • Move Validation: Only legal moves are allowed, with illegal moves automatically prevented by the interface.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do two players use the same device?
Players sit across from each other and pass the device after each move. The board automatically flips perspective, or you can rotate the device between turns.
Can I undo moves in friend mode?
Yes, you can undo the last move using the "Undo Move" button. This is helpful for taking back accidental moves or exploring different variations.
Are the chess rules enforced?
Yes, all standard chess rules are enforced including castling, en passant, pawn promotion, and checkmate detection. Illegal moves are automatically prevented.

How Friend Mode Works

This local multiplayer mode runs entirely in your web browser using modern JavaScript chess libraries. The game uses Chess.js for move validation and game logic, ensuring all rules are properly enforced. The visual chessboard is powered by Chessground, providing smooth drag-and-drop piece movement and highlighting of legal moves.

No data is sent to external servers - everything runs locally on your device. This ensures privacy and allows for instant move validation without network delays. The game state is maintained in your browser's memory, making moves feel responsive and immediate.