The traditional chess game involves two players sitting across from each other, ready to both impose their strategy on the opponent and stifle the strategy of their opponent. This intense mental competition stimulates the mind of both players, making the game of chess one of the most intellectual games in the world.
Playing an online chess game is a bit different, however. Similar to online poker, where poker players can see thousands of hands per day and build their knowledge base of each situation, an online chess game is a building block of a chess player’s knowledge base. Unlike playing a traditional game of chess in person, online chess games push the game to a very simplistic form, depersonalizing each move and strategy to a graphical change on the virtual chessboard. So why would you choose to play an online chess game over a normal game? Here are some reasons to consider:
1. Convenience
Playing online chess games offers convenience that is unmatched by traditional, in-person chess games. There are many free chess games to be found on the Internet, allowing players all over the world to play with other players. An online chess game also allows players of all skill levels to play with other players either of any level, allowing a multitude of options to test their own skill and the efficacy of certain strategies.
2. Repetition
Online chess games allow chess players to play a constant stream of games. This allows them to constantly test new strategies and practice new tactics. As with any competitive sport, chess requires constant repetition and practice to reach a competitive level. For example, in football, players run drills to train their mind and body to be able to perform flawlessly over and over. The drills allow them to prepare to reach a certain mindset and develop muscle memory. In chess, practice develops a mental memory of certain strategies and positions, especially those that pop up more than once.
3. Simplification
When playing chess in person, advanced chess players can read their opponent and develop a specific strategy adapted to their opponent’s playing style. Online chess games simplify the game of chess by removing the physical presence of the opponent. This allows a chess player to train based on the position of the pieces and not be affected by the opponent. Mastering the technical and mathematical aspect of chess allows players to make moves that give them the best chance to win. Advanced players must have this ability on top of the ability to read their opponent. There is a reason people compare mental competitions to a game of chess!
Playing an online chess game can be very different than playing a traditional chess game in person. It offers the convenience to play against any person at any time, the ability to practice through repetition, and simplifies the game to allows players to start from the ground up.


