Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about playing chess on LocalChess — free, in your browser, no signup required.
Is LocalChess free to play?
Yes. LocalChess is completely free, with no signup, no account, and no ads. Just open the page and start playing.
Can I play chess against the computer?
Yes. Choose Play Bot and pick Easy, Medium, or Hard difficulty. You can also choose whether you play White or Black.
Does LocalChess work offline?
Yes. The whole game runs in your browser with no server, so once the page has loaded it keeps working without an internet connection.
Can I import or export a game?
Yes. You can import and export games in PGN, and import or export positions in FEN, using the Import / Export controls.
Can two people play on the same device?
Yes. Select 2 Players for hotseat mode and take turns on the same screen.
Do I need to create an account?
No. There is no login, registration, or personal data required. LocalChess works instantly for everyone.
Can I change the board and piece design?
Yes. Open Settings (the gear icon) on the game page to switch between board themes such as Classic Wood, Ocean Blue, and Tournament Green, plus several piece styles.