Lichess
Lichess is a free and open-source chess server for playing chess online. It allows users to play anonymously against other players or friends in real-time or through correspondence games. Key features include analysis tools, puzzles, lessons, and tournaments.
chess
online
open-source
analysis
puzzles
lessons
tournaments
Lichess: Free Online Chess Server
A free and open-source chess server for playing chess online with real-time matches, anonymous play, correspondence games, analysis tools, puzzles, lessons, and tournaments.
What is Lichess?
Lichess is a free and open-source chess playing website that allows users to play chess games online against other players. Originally launched in 2010, Lichess is now one of the most popular chess servers, with over 1 million games played every day.
As an open-source software, Lichess is completely free for anyone to use without advertisements or the need to register an account. Players can compete anonymously against random opponents or challenge friends directly. The site supports real-time gameplay through live boards as well as correspondence chess via email-like messaging.
In addition to basic chess rules and piece movement, Lichess provides chess enthusiasts with developer tools like analysis boards, computer evaluations, opening explorers, and an engine that shows the top moves for each position. There is even a dedicated Lichess TV channel covering major chess events.
The site also has learning features for beginners and intermediate players. These tools include interactive lessons and tutorials on chess basics, tactics training through puzzles, and a database of over 8 million chess games to study. Players can even join massive tournament events with different time controls and get paired against similarly rated opponents.
Supported across mobile devices and platforms, Lichess utilizes open-source Stockfish software to ensure chess games maintain the highest fairness and accuracy standards. With a fast, minimal interface for gameplay, Lichess aims to provide all chess fans with the best online experience.
Lichess Features
Features
- Play chess games in real-time or correspondence
- Anonymous play
- Analysis tools
- Puzzles and lessons
- Tournaments
- Free for all features
Pricing
- Free
- Open Source
Pros
Completely free to use
Open source software
Good community
Many features like analysis and lessons
User friendly interface
Cons
Smaller player pool than some paid sites
Limited customization options
Fewer learning resources than some paid sites
Official Links
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