15 Best Chess Apps For iPhone And iPad

Chess is a strategy game that has captivated us for years. The game is known to offer several benefits such as boosting IQ, improved reading skills, and better memory retention among others.

Traditionally, it was played on physical boards with two distinct colors. However, with the development of technology, the game is now accessible digitally and participants can enjoy it from any location as long as they have a device such as an iPhone or iPad.

There are quite a number of chess apps you can download on your device but some of them have bugs and annoying adverts. There are even those that don’t provide the best experience in terms of graphics and audio output.

Luckily, we have compiled a list of some of the best chess apps if you own an iPhone or iPad. Read on to find out more.

Best Chess Apps for iPhone & iPad

1. Chess – Play & Learn

Chess – Play & Learn is one of the most enjoyable games you can install on your iPhone or iPad device. It comes in a small file size that typically downloads and installs within two minutes.

The application takes up little space and uses up a fraction of your device’s resources so you can rest assured that there will be no drop in loading speeds. In this game, you can go up against people from across the globe.

Note that there are over 130 million people that have joined the online community so you’ll always have an opponent ready to take you on. Online tournaments earn you points and move you up on the leaderboard.

There are several other rewards you receive when you show exemplary performance. Games can last for as little as one minute or stretch out for as long as 30 minutes depending on what you prefer.

There is also a two-player chess mode so you can go against your friend on the same device. You’ll be pleased to know you can switch from one chess variant to another with some of the options available including Chess960, Puzzle Rush, Puzzle Battle, 3-Check, and King of the Hill.

This app is available free of charge.

Also Read: Toon Blast Revenue & User Statistics

2. Real Chess 3D

If you are looking for a fun game with immersive 3D graphics, Real Chess 3D should be one of your go-to apps. In this game, you get to go up against the AI as you practice your gaming skills.

This mode has four difficulty levels with the fourth one being the most challenging as the AI brings its ‘A’ game. In case you are looking for a human opponent, you can simply switch from the AI mode to the human opponent version and face your friends or family members.

One of the best things about this app is that it incorporates a learning section where you can visit and learn the basics of playing the game. You’ll also enjoy learning about the tips and tricks that help professional players come out on top every time they get into the ring.

The game features a soothing soundtrack that will help you relax and focus even when you are on a busy train or in a noisy environment. It also allows you to customize different aspects including the overall look and the chess board itself.

As noted earlier, it has incredible graphics and the board is large enough for comfortable viewing and maneuvering. The game is available for free and has minimal adverts so you don’t have to worry about getting distracted.

3. Chess – Offline Board Game

Next up on this list of the best chess apps for iPhone and iPad is Chess – Offline Board Game. This is a good alternative for anyone that loves chess but does not want to have to connect to the internet every time they want to play.

One of the best things about this game is that you can switch from a 2D mode to a 3D mode just to experience the two variations. It incorporates state-of-the-art graphics which ensure you get an immersive experience.

It also includes a soothing soundtrack so you’ll feel more relaxed after each session. Once you have installed the game, you’ll be facing off with the computer system which offers up to eight difficulty levels.

As you beat each level, you’ll keep earning points and rewards. If you are just getting started with chess, you can activate the hint feature that lets you get a few clues as to the best moves to make.

You can also undo a move if you realize that it was not the best. The application also has a personal statistics section where you can go and find information regarding your progress.

Some of the information you’ll find include the number of games you have won and lost so far. This game comes in a relatively small file size so you’ll be able to download and install it quickly.

Once you launch it, you can choose the default theme including black, white, or random colors. The game is available completely free of charge and does not include any advertisements.

Check Out: Multiplayer Geography Quiz Games

4. Chess Universe

Another excellent chess app for iPhone and iPad is Chess Universe. The game features incredible graphics so you’ll be captivated every time you make a move.

You can choose to play this game online or offline depending on your preference. Players can compete against the AI system in both the offline and online modes.

In case you want to get the experience of challenging other players from around the world, you can always join online multiplayer competitions. In these online competitions, you’ll need to prove your mettle as you face experienced and skilled players from around the world.

As you overcome your challenges, you’ll unlock fancy rewards and earn the title of Chess Master. While at the top, you’ll receive plenty of requests from people seeking to dethrone you and this makes the competition even more interesting.

In case you are just getting started with the game, you can always visit the chess academy to pick up a few tips and tricks on how to win. In the academy, you’ll be presented with chess puzzles that help you understand some of the strategies you can use on different opponents.

There are also daily chess quests that earn you points and rewards so you’ll not go a single day without finding something interesting to do. The app is available free of charge and features different chess variants including Chess Blitz, Bullet, and Rapid Chess.

5. Chess for Kids – Play & Learn

Chess for Kids – Play & Learn is another impressive app you should consider downloading. It is one of the best options for parents who want to help their kids improve their critical thinking capacities.

For starters, this app is available to download and install completely free of charge. It also doesn’t include any annoying ads that may cause distractions.

Its graphics are top-notch so you can be sure that your kids won’t struggle to get a clear view of the entire chessboard. The game incorporates relaxing background music which you can choose to turn on or switch off if you wish to play in complete silence.

It also features ChessBots that offer stiff competition when playing against the AI system. These ChessBots are so sophisticated that they can provide a real challenge to anyone at any skill level.

Kids can also switch to the online mode and face off with other kids from around the world to see who is the king of the board game. Another exciting thing about this app is that it includes hilarious kid-friendly videos that can help children learn and hone their skills.

There are also thousands of puzzles to be solved so kids will always have something to do while on the app. Parents have full control over this app so they can choose the best times to let their kids play.

6. SocialChess – Online Chess

SocialChess is one of the best apps for iPhone and iPad especially if you want to make new friends from around the world. That is because it incorporates plenty of social features to help you meet new people.

For instance, you get to create a user profile that includes a picture and comment section to let others know more about you. You get the same information regarding your opponents plus their location around the world.

There is a chat option where you can send messages directly to the people on the app. There is also a group chat feature where you can join others to discuss almost any topic you’re interested in.

Additionally, you get to browse through other players’ stats just to gauge their skill level before you challenge them to a duel. It features Elo rankings to let players know their position in the game’s leaderboards.

This is one of the few apps that let you play up to five games simultaneously if you can handle it. You can also play games that require each player to make their move within a specified period of time.

If an opponent does not make a move within the specified time, you can claim victory. The app also has an analysis board where you can plan out each move just to be sure.

You can download and install the app for free.

Also Read: GeoGuessr Famous Places – The Ultimate Game

7. Chess Adventures for Kids

Chess Adventures for Kids is another exceptional app you can download on your iPad or iPhone and let your little ones enjoy. It is built around an exciting, safe, and educational world where kids play against fun fantasy bosses.

Kids also get to face others from around the world in the online mode. In this game, the player has to face different chess bosses and beat each one of them to climb up through the ranks.

The final boss is the toughest and beating him means the player collects all the loot. The game also includes fun puzzles that will have your kids scratching their heads for clues.

One of the things that make it stand out is that it allows players to customize their characters by changing their outfits and physical features. The player also gets to switch from one theme to another which also changes the chess board and pieces.

The game has over six educational quests with hundreds of challenges to overcome. Animated characters and top-notch graphics make for an immersive experience while the no-advert policy ensures the player does not get distracted.

This app is also available for free.

8. Chess – Clash of Kings

Chess – Clash of Kings is another great option you have. The game features some of the best graphics so you can be sure to get an unforgettable experience every time you play.

Chess – Clash of Kings has a multiplayer mode where you can go online and battle it out with players from around the world. You get to choose the type of game to play with some of the most popular being speed games like Blitz.

The best part is that each game variant comes with instructions to help you learn how to play so you can adapt quickly. Games include one-on-one duels to win points and prizes and tournaments to earn you a place in the overall leaderboard.

There is a chess rating system in place that analyzes all your games and provides stats about your progression. You are then ranked or categorized according to the stats on your profile.

This app includes puzzles that earn you in-game gold whenever you crack them. In case you are a beginner, you can activate the hints feature so that you get clues on the best moves to make.

You can also undo your moves if you realize that they are not as effective as you thought. Not only does this app come in a small file size, but it is also available completely free of charge.

9. Magnus Trainer – Train Chess

Magnus Trainer is an iPhone and iPad application designed to help new chess players learn the basic rules and develop their skills over a short time. There are over 250 unique lessons about chess from its foundation to openings and endgames.

The app includes different chess variants with most of them taking up just a few minutes. However, each game presents you with new perspectives so you can always be alert when facing different opponents.

Games include multiple difficulty levels so you can be sure to notice progression in time. Puzzles are included to help boost your critical thinking skills.

Magnus Trainer is free to download and install.

Also Read: Best Offline iPad Games

10. Square Off – Chess App

Square Off – Chess App is another interesting option you can go for if you want to learn and improve your gaming prowess. One of the things that make it an exciting app is that it is growing in popularity and people from around the world are continuously joining the community.

Once you install it on your device, you can start playing an offline game right away. Alternatively, you can select the online mode and play against people from any location around the world.

As you keep winning, your points will increase and that inevitably pushes you higher on the ranking board. Not only do you win in-app rewards, but you can also get real-life prizes in specific tournaments organized by the Square Off community.

The app makes it possible for participants to communicate through text messages. There is also an in-app video calling option where you can talk to other players live.

When playing against the AI, you’ll have up to 20 difficulty levels to overcome. Another interesting thing is that the app provides a post-game analysis with a graphical interface so you can get some insights into your progress.

You also get to redeem points for real-life rewards which is an added advantage. This game boasts a simple interface with excellent graphics.

Square Off is free to use.

Check Out: Best Games Like Astroneer

11. Chess Tiger

If you are looking for the best chess app to learn and sharpen your skills, Chess Tiger should be at the top of your list. Immediately you launch this app, you’ll encounter an AI coach that guides you on the best moves to make.

The coach points out four of the best possible moves. He continues to teach you right up to the end of the match. The game has relatively good graphics and is available completely free of charge.

It is ideal for someone who wants to learn how to play chess rather than those who want high-stakes, adrenalin-fueled competitions.

12. Chess Royale

Chess Royale is another app that takes up little space on your device but packs a punch when it comes to overall design and features. The game lets you switch from 3D to 2D interfaces so you can get the best of both worlds.

You get to play against the AI or use one device to go up against your friends or family members. Alternatively, you can join online competitions for a chance to become the world’s best chess player.

The game includes tutorials and puzzles that help you learn and improve your skills. There is also a post-game analysis to help you get important insights about every aspect of your gaming abilities.

You can download it for free.

Also Read: PlayGeography Review

13. Chess Prime 3D

Chess Prime 3D makes it to this list of the best chess apps for iPhone and iPad thanks to its lightweight and feature-packed design. The app allows you to switch from a 3D interface to a 2D interface which breaks the monotony of playing with the same graphics all the time.

You also get to change the color of the board and the pieces as you wish. Another excellent feature is that you can configure your name to reflect your personality.

In this game, you can choose to go up against the versatile AI system that adapts to your skill level. That means anyone can enjoy the game regardless of whether they are a novice or professional.

Like most of the other games on this list, Chess Prime 3D includes puzzles that make it possible for you to earn points and other forms of rewards. There is an online mode where you can invite your friends to join and compete against each other.

There is also the option to pick random opponents from anywhere in the world. The game’s controls and camera angles are also quite versatile.

For instance, you can easily turn the chessboard through a 360-degree motion just to get an overall view of the board and the pieces. You also get to change the size of the board and the pieces.

This app automatically saves your game’s progress so that it can be restored to the exact place when you log back in. You can download and install it for free.

Also Read: Best Games For Long-distance Family & Friends

14. Shredder Chess

Shredder Chess is another app you should consider installing on your iPhone or iPad. It has top-notch graphics to keep you glued to your screen throughout the gaming session.

In this game, you will be going up against Shredder which is one of the most proficient chess AI programs. You are free to adjust the program’s skill level depending on your own strengths and weaknesses.

The game includes over 1,000 puzzles for you to solve and win rewards. There is also a built-in diagram that provides some of your stats so you always know whether or not you are making any progress in terms of skill levels.

The app lets you choose different gaming styles that range from passive to aggressive. The good news is that you can activate the coaching feature that lets you know when you have made a poor move and gives you hints on the best possible moves to make.

Shredder Chess is available at a cost of $3.99.

Explore: Best Games Like Wasteland 3

15. Lichess – Online Chess

Last on the list is Lichess. Like most apps here, this game incorporates some of the latest graphics and soundtracks so you’ll have an immersive and relaxing experience.

You can choose to play against the AI or set your sights on the world stage and take on other players from around the globe. There is an offline mode where you can play against a friend or family member on the same device.

Additionally, there are a number of daily quests and long-term tournaments you can join. You also get to choose the type of game you want to play with some of the options including Blitz, Bullet, and Classical Chess.

This app incorporates puzzles that help unlock your critical thinking abilities. It also has game stats so you can keep an eye on your performance over a period of time.

It is available free of charge.

Explore: Best Games Like Fallen London

Wrapping Up

Chess games can be a good way for you to pass the time while also helping you relax and develop critical thinking skills. But you can only enjoy these benefits if you pick the best apps out there.

Apps such as Chess – Play & Learn and Real Chess 3D offer an immersive experience with some high-stakes tournaments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Chess for Kids and Chess Tiger are good options for anyone that wants to learn and develop their skills from the ground up.

Enjoyed the post?

Share on Pinterest