Looking to play chess on Switch and mobile? Despite being one of the oldest games in the world, the game of kings and queens is still incredibly popular, with new players taking their first moves every day. So, we’ve put together a list of all the chess games you can play on mobile and on the Switch, from those that teach you the basics to some with an interesting twist on the classic rules.
So, if you want to join in the fun and checkmate a friend, we’ve put together this guide on how to play chess on mobile and Switch. We’ve also got guides on how to play Minesweeper, how to play Solitaire, and how to play Pac-Man on Switch and mobile if you’re after some more classics. Or, for more table games on the go, be sure to check out our picks for the best pool games, ping pong games, and poker games to see where your skills lie.
Here are the best games that let you play chess on mobile and Switch.
Family Chess
With touch controls, a host of animated characters to bring the board to life, and plenty of difficulty options to make things accessible for everyone, Family Chess is the primo Switch chess title for those who aren’t looking to take things too seriously with online competition.
Perfect for the family who can never seem to find their chess board, Family Chess is the ideal candidate for a game to keep the kids quiet in the back of the car or can’t stand another unnecessarily raucous game of Uno.
Chess
With over 50k tutorials, puzzles, and mini-lessons, the Chess.com app is the best way for new players to learn the game without spending a penny. It also just happens to be a social hub full of some of the world’s best chess players, and you can even pick up tips from tutors who use the app to teach the grandmasters of tomorrow.
Of course, there are also online casual and competitive modes, so you can take it easy while you learn, or apply your hours of practice to the heat of tournament play.
Chess Minimal
Chess Minimal might live up to its name in visual design, but there’s much more under the hood than you might think at first glance. With a selection between 5-minute blitz, 15-minute rapid, and 30-minute regular games, you can test your skills in your preferred arena against fellow players and watch your ELO rating skyrocket in real-time.
This chess sim also features touch support and local multiplayer, so even if you do still need a little training with friends before heading online, the option is there.
Magnus Trainer
Is there any better way to master a game than under the watchful eye of the best in the world? If there is, no one had better tell the developers of Magnus Trainer, a zen-like chess title with official support from Magnus Carlsen, the Norwegian grandmaster himself.
Not only is this title one of the most effective when it comes to honing your skills as a chess player, but it’s also the prettiest on this list by a country mile, with a serious Monument Valley vibe across almost all of the tutorial levels.
Chess Clash of Kings
There are few chess sims on Switch as comprehensive as Chess Clash of Kings, with ten unlockable levels of difficulty, a selection of fantasy RPG-influenced pieces, and over 400 puzzles that are designed to improve your checkmating skills.
It’s also worth mentioning that Chess Clash of Kings has an undo button. Yes, an undo button! So if you regret the placement of your bishop, or you failed a Queen’s Gambit, you can try your turn again with a simple click.
Shotgun King: The Final Checkmate
If you’re looking for a deadlier way to play chess, Shotgun King: The Final Checkmate is exactly that. As you can probably guess from the title, this game has guns, and lots of them, and you’re going to need to use them if you want to win.
Shotgun King is a roguelike title, with a myriad of upgrades available to strengthen your arsenal during a run. Sure, you won’t learn any exciting chess moves here, but there’s a fun time to be had blasting bishops and pulverizing pawns.
There you have it, our picks for the titles you should head to when you’re wondering how to play chess on Switch and mobile. If you’re after some more old-school classics, we have picks for the best Snake games on mobile and Switch, as well as the best tic-tac-toe games.