# Introduction
{% hint style="success" %} Anichess is a chess game with spells. Developed by Animoca Brands in partnership with Chess.com. {% endhint %} Players compete in spell-based matches, earn rewards, and climb global leaderboards. Ambassadors include Magnus Carlsen, Anish Giri, Sopiko Giri, Dina Belenkaya, David Howell, Sam Sevian, and others. *** ## Our Why > *We are re-imagining chess for the modern generation and creating an inclusive ecosystem where everyone can contribute and grow one of the world’s most iconic games.* 1. **Modern chess experience**: chess is a timeless classic with 700M+ players worldwide. We are updating it for today’s gamers, offering a fresh take on the traditional experience 2. **Leveling the playing field**: our unique spell layer provides a refreshing and engaging experience for everyone, and also levels the playing field, from novices to grandmasters, so that everyone can enjoy the beauty of chess without feeling intimidated 3. **Fair and secure competition**: we ensure fair competition by using blockchain technology to make match data and player performance tamper-proof and transparent 4. **Empowering players**: we view chess as a public good. By empowering fans to contribute to the game permissionless via our decentralized infrastructure, we can ensure that it continues to evolve for many generations to come # Getting Started ## Create an account Visit anichess.com and create your account: 1. Social login: Chess.com, Facebook, Gmail, Discord, or X. A non-custodial wallet is created automatically. You keep full control of any assets you earn. 2. Web3 login: Abstract Globat Wallet, Coinbase Wallet, MetaMask, Rabby, or any wallet via WalletConnect. ### Learn the basics in 70 seconds Start with the Tutorial mode. It walks you through the core rules and spells before you play your first match. {% embed url="" %} #### Play Your First Match Open the game and choose Standard Mode to play your first competitive match. Standard matches earn you M8 (MATE), points that can be used as entry for Checkmate Arena. If you want to practice before playing live, choose Training to play against an AI at your own pace. # How to Play {% embed url="" %} ## Core Gameplay Anichess keeps the foundations of chess intact: castling, en passant, promotion. But there's no check or checkmate. You win by capturing the opponent's king. That move is called a Kingslay. There's no check warning, the king can move into danger, and stalemate doesn't apply. Spells are the main feature in Anichess that allows the players to break traditional chess rules. Before each match, both players will select 3 spells to be used for the match. Standard Time Control : Blitz (5+2) ## Mana & Spells
Spells are your second layer of strategy. Each has a mana cost and a cast limit per game. You earn 1 mana every turn you don't cast, up to a cap of 8. Some spells reposition your pieces in ways traditional chess never allowed. Others break the rules outright, steal mana, or go straight for destruction. You start with 7 spells unlocked. The remaining 7 unlock after completing your first 1-3 matches. ## Game Modes
### Standard This is where all the players begin. Rank up and challenge opponents. Earn M8. Complete 15 Standard matches per week to earn M8, scaled to your rating class. The weekly mission resets every Monday at 00:00 UTC. Rating tiers determine your matchmaking and M8 earning rate. See the Standard Mode / Rating section for full tier breakdown. Earn M8 points to enter Checkmate Arena. ### **Checkmate Arena** Enter with M8 and compete for $CHECK. 50 players are randomly selected every week to receive a minimum of 500 $CHECK each. The more matches you play, the higher your odds of being picked. > Open daily: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM UTC > > Earn M8 by completing 15 Standard matches per week. ### **Gambit** The ultimate high-stakes showdown. Winner takes all. Both players buy in with $CHECK. Spells are randomly assigned from the same pool for both players, so no one enters with a preset advantage. You win by playing better with what you're dealt. Reward pool: 1,000,000+ $CHECK per season 7. See the full Season 7 section below for mechanics. ### **Custom** Challenge a friend directly with your own rules. No rating impact. ### **Training** Play against an AI opponent at four difficulty levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Master. ### **Tutorial** Learn the basics of Anichess: core rules, spells, and how the game works. Free to play, no account required. # Spells Spells are the defining feature of Anichess. Each has its own effect, mana cost, and cast limit per game. Some are subtle; others are game-ending. You don't need to know all 14 at once. Start with your defaults and build from there. Spells will be unlocked as you progress further into the game. Unlocked by default: Parkour Mech, Slip, House Recruit, Bis-Hop 2.0, Imposter. *** ## Parkour Mech Permanently transform a piece (excluding King and Queen) into a Knight. Counts as a move. Cost: 3 Mana | Limit: 2 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Imposter Swap one of your pieces with an opponent's piece of the same type (excluding King and Pawns). Counts as a move. Cost: 4 Mana | Limit: 3 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Shot in the Dark Make a piece (excluding the Queen) invisible for 1 turn. You may move it or leave it in place. If another piece lands on its square, it is captured. Cost: 3 Mana | Limit: 3 casts {% embed url="" %} ## House Recruit Create a Pawn on an empty square between the 3rd and 6th ranks. Counts as a move. Cost: 5 Mana | Limit: 3 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Bis-Hop 2.0 Leap your Bishop over one piece in its path. Can capture. Cost: 4 Mana | Limit: 3 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Queen Time Move a Knight, Bishop, or Rook like a Queen once. Can capture. King excluded. Cost: 7 Mana | Limit: 1 cast {% embed url="" %} ## Slip Move a Pawn, Knight, or Rook diagonally by 1 square (no capture). Steals 1 Mana from your opponent. Cost: 1 Mana | Limit: 5 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Juke Move a Pawn, Knight, or Bishop vertically by 1 square (no capture). Steals 1 Mana from your opponent. Cost: 1 Mana | Limit: 6 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Shift Move a Pawn, Knight, or Bishop horizontally by 1 square (no capture). Steals 1 Mana from your opponent. Cost: 1 Mana | Limit: 6 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Pengu Dive Teleport one of your pieces (excluding Pawns) to an empty square within a 5x5 area around it. Counts as a move. Cost: 3 Mana | Limit: 4 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Tactical Necessity Sacrifice a piece to destroy an opponent's lower-rank piece (excluding the King). Counts as a move. Cost: 1 Mana | Limit: 5 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Pounce And Purr Leap a piece to an adjacent empty square. Then stun one opponent piece within 1 square of the landing spot (excluding King) for 1 turn. Cost: 4 Mana | Limit: 2 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Transcendence Move a piece across the board's left and right edges. Can capture. King excluded. Cost: 6 Mana | Limit: 2 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Pengu Blast Deploy up to 3 bombs in any orientation between the 3rd and 6th rank. Detonates after 3 turns, eliminating all pieces in the blast zone. Cost: 5 Mana | Limit: 3 casts {% embed url="" %} ## Power Infusion Promote the rank of a piece (capped as Rook). Act as a move. Every cast lowers the cost by 1. Cost: 6 Mana | Limit: 5 casts {% embed url="" %} # Spell Missions You unlock new spells by playing. Each mission is tied to a specific mode or challenge. You don’t have to do them in order — completing them expands your spellbook. Every player starts with five core spells. To unlock the full set, complete the missions below. **Shift:** Complete 3 Friend Matches to unlock **Juke:** Complete 5 Quick Matches to unlock **Tactical Necessity:** Complete 1 Friend Match to unlock **Shot in the Dark:** Win 3 Ranked Matches to unlock **Queen Time:** Complete 5 Quick Matches to unlock **Pengu Dive:** Win 1 Ranked Match to unlock **Pounce and Purr:** Temporary Unlocked **Transcendence:** Temporary Unlocked # Ranking Anichess uses a Glicko2-based rating system. Your rating reflects your skill level across Standard matches and determines your matchmaking. Rating tiers: • Legend (2000+) • King (1900-1999) • Queen (1700-1899) • Rook (1500-1699) • Bishop (1300-1499) • Knight (1100-1299) • Pawn (0-1099) ### Earning M8 in Standard Mode ![](/files/NBYg55XVvG4GyxAmRz2y)
Complete 15 Standard matches per week to earn M8, scaled to your rating class. Rewards are distributed weekly. The mission resets every Monday at 00:00 UTC. Higher rating class = more M8 per week. M8 is used to enter Checkmate Arena.
# Inventory
Anichess lets you personalize your matches with unique boards, backgrounds, chess sets, and spells. Mix and match to create your own look. New players start with a default inventory. Additional cosmetics are earned through gameplay, season rewards, and special events. # M8 Points
M8 is the points layer of Anichess. It rewards consistent play and gives you access to Checkmate Arena. ### Earning M8 Complete 15 Standard matches per week to earn M8. The amount depends on your rating class. Earning mechanics may update each season. You can also earn M8 by staking $CHECK (see the Staking section below). Check [Current Events](/anichess/current-events) for the latest M8 earning mechanics. ### Claiming M8 Claim window: 08:00 UTC / 04:00 ET / 10:00 CET / 16:00 HKT Unclaimed M8 accumulates. Weekend claims may be delayed but stay valid for 24 hours
### Checkmate Arena Hold M8 to enter Checkmate Arena, the weekly random draw for $CHECK prizes. • Open daily: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM UTC • 50 players selected randomly each week • Minimum 500 $CHECK each • More matches played = higher odds of being selected
# Game Rules
Players must choose 1 or 3 spells at the start of each game, depending on whether they choose to play the Lite or Classic variant. You gain 1 mana point per turn if you don’t cast a spell, up to a maximum of 8 mana that can be accumulated at any time. When a piece is captured by a spell, it behaves as if captured by a normal move. You are allocated a fixed time per game and below are the current formats available: * Flash: 3 minutes with a 2-second increment per move (3|2) * Blitz: 5 minutes with a 2-second increment per move (5|2) * Rapid: 10 minutes with no increment (10|0) Classic chess moves, including basic piece movement, Castling, En Passant, and Pawn Promotion, remain, though castling is allowed even if the king or the squares it moves through are threatened. After making a move, a player gains 1 mana. The concept of check or mate does not exist due to spells. # How to Win **Objective**: Win by Kingslay, which is when you capture your opponent’s king. Unlike classic chess, Anichess has no check or checkmate concept due to spells. **Draw**: When the same board position repeats three times or if both players make 50 consecutive moves without a pawn being moved or a piece being captured. Players can also agree to a draw or either player may resign at any time. **Stalemate**: Stalemates do not exist because moving a king into check is not a concept # Game Modes
Anichess offers various game modes to suit different playstyles, from casual matches to more competitive, ranked games: 1. **Quick Match**: Enjoy a fast-paced game without affecting your Rating. This mode is ideal for casual play, allowing you to experience the thrill of Anichess without the pressure of rankings. 2. **Ranked Match**: Compete and climb the leaderboard with our Glicko2-based Rating system, designed to reflect your true skill level. Each match impacts your Rating, with higher stakes when facing opponents of different skill levels. Before entering Ranked Matches, you must first play 5 Quick Matches to familiarize yourself with the game mechanics. 3. **Friend Match**: Challenge a friend directly in a private match. This mode offers a personalized game experience, perfect for friendly competitions, without affecting your Rating. 4. **Train with Bot**: Practice against an AI opponent with four difficulty levels - Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Master. # Current Events # Season 4 of PVP {% embed url="" %} Season 4 marks the final competitive phase before the next era of Anichess begins. All player ratings have been reset, offering a fresh start to climb the ranks under the Glicko-2 system (displayed simply as “Rating”). This season introduces updated mechanics for earning M8 — your onchain activity record. M8 is earned through daily Quick and Ranked matches, scaling based on consistency and performance. The more you play and win, the more you earn.
Your M8 and Rating both contribute to Season 4’s Leaderboards: * Rating Leaderboard: Tracks competitive skill * M8 Leaderboard: Rewards daily activity At season’s end, the Top 64 by Rating qualify for the Season 4 Playoffs, competing for a $10,000 prize pool in $CHECK. # Pudgy Takeover *The cutest brand in Web3 just took over spell chess.* ## What's Inside The takeover begins October 9th marking the first major Anichess event on Abstract, the #1 consumer chain. From that day on, the entire game shifts: * A new game mode, PenguBoard, lets you crush ice to win up to 600,000 $PENGU * The spellbook grows with PenguBlast, a brand-new spell. * Two leaderboards track your play — ranked and M8 spent. * A Pudgy-themed loading screen and fresh Pudgy skins change the look and feel. * Pudgy x Anichess Tournament kicking off October 9th, with prizes including $10,000 worth of $CHECK prizepool and Lil Pudgy NFT for the winner. Log in with Abstract Global Wallet (AGW) to unlock the deepest Abstract-native benefits while you play. ## PenguBoard
PenguBoard is a way to join the takeover even without chess skills — a crush-ice-to-win experience with hidden $PENGU rewards Each PenguBoard is an 8×8 chessboard frozen in ice. To start, you’ll need 100 M8 — the Anichess ecosystem on-chain points. You can earn M8 by playing the Anichess main game (see section below) or by swapping $PENGU. Alternatively, you can also pick up other in-progress PenguBoards from [OpenSea](https://opensea.io/collection/anichess-x-pudgy-penguins) or [Magic Eden](https://magiceden.io/collections/abstract/0x3261e96a63f24c480e0f8dfc7416126bbb2da441). After you have started, a PenguBoard will be minted and the fun begins. Progression is simple but with choices. Squares open in sequence from left to right, row by row. You can crush a single square for 100 M8, or clear an entire row for 1373 M8. Costs gradually increase as you climb higher, and the deeper you go, the bigger the potential rewards. Early rows are cheap with small $Pengu payouts, mid-level rows unlock 2x to 20x multipliers, and the very top rows carry the ultimate reward — a 2x to 100x prize worth up to 600,000 $PENGU. If you choose a full row and the $PENGU reward appears early, you still pay for the whole row. The current PenguBoard session ends when you win a $PENGU reward. When this happens, the PenguBoard will be burned and you’ll be redirected to the PenguBoard main page, where you can start a new board and play again. Note: There is a small chance to win a $PENGU reward immediately after starting a new board. In that case, the board will be burned and you’ll receive the $PENGU reward. You can then start another PenguBoard. ## M8 points M8 is the on-chain point system for the Anichess ecosystem. It’s needed to start and play PenguBoards and to climb the leaderboard. **Ways to get M8** 1. Swap M8 with $PENGU directly from the PenguBoard main page. This is a one way swap.
2\. Play Anichess PVP Main Game (claims available soon)
3\. Follow us on X and join Discord for news about special events featuring M8 rewards. **Earn M8 (claims available soon)** Earning M8 by playing Anichess is simple: win at least three ranked matches in a single day and you qualify. That’s all it takes — three wins, every day. The amount of M8 you can claim each day depends on your Ranked Mode Rating — your rating increases if you win and decreases if you lose. You’ll also receive a one-off milestone bonus when you advance to the next tier. Milestone bonuses will be distributed after the Pudgy Takeover ends.
**How to Claim M8** Claiming M8 follows a daily rhythm. Your activity window runs from 00:00 to 23:59 UTC → 20:00 to 19:59 ET (previous day to same day) → 02:00 to 01:59 CEST (same day to next day) → 08:00 to 07:59 HKT (same day to next day). Then, every weekday at 04:00 ET / 08:00 UTC / 10:00 CET / 16:00 HKT, the claim window opens. Head to the M8 Claim button in the game’s top nav to collect. ⚠️ If you don’t claim before the next cycle, your M8 expires. On weekends, claim periods may shift slightly, but rewards will always arrive within 24 hours.
Using M8 connects you to the takeover loop. Spend 100 M8 to unlock your first PenguBoard, then reveal squares or rows for a chance at $PENGU rewards. Your M8 also fuels the leaderboard on how much you’ve spent. And if you need more, you can swap $PENGU → M8 (one way swap). M8 keeps the whole event moving. Earn it, claim it, and put it to work under the ice. ## Leaderboards
Two boards decide your status during the takeover: **Pudgy Takeover leaderboard** — Tracks how much M8 you’ve spent on PenguBoards (live with M8 claims) **Ranked** — Reset for a fresh start, win ranked matches to go up. ## Tournament The takeover isn’t just about crushing ice. It’s also about proving you’re the biggest brain on the board. The Pudgy x Anichess Tournament is where strategy players compete. Anyone with an AGW account can enter. The competition runs in three stages: **Qualifiers:** *October 9 to Oct 23* Play ranked matches to climb the leaderboard. Open to all, no registration needed. **Top 64**: *Announced Oct 27* Finalists will be chosen based on the ranked leaderboard, with checks for fair play. All selected players will be asked to fill out a contact form and join the Anichess Discord. **Playoffs:** *Starting Oct 29* Single-elimination bracket. Each round has a 36-hour window to match with your opponent. Finals and the 3rd place match will be livestreamed. Prizepool: 10K in $CHECK + Lil Pudgy for the Champion
## Getting Started in 5 steps **Log in with AGW** Use Abstract Global Wallet for full benefits. Any wallet works, but only players with AGW can participate in the tournament. AGW players can also potentially earn Abstract XP. **Play and win three Ranked Matches daily** That’s all it takes to qualify for M8. Win three Ranked Matches, and you’re set. **Claim your M8 (available soon)** Check the M8 Claim button in the top nav. Claims open every weekday at 04:00 ET / 08:00 UTC / 10:00 CET / 16:00 HKT. Don’t miss the window — unclaimed M8 expires with the next cycle. **Start PenguBoard** Spend 100 M8 to start your first board, or grab one on Magic Eden or OpenSea. Reveal squares or full rows to chase $PENGU rewards, from small payouts to the 100x prize. You can also swap your $PENGU for M8. **Climb the leaderboards** Your progress counts two ways: M8 spent on PenguBoards and your Rating in Ranked Mode Every move pushes you higher — and closer to Pudgy prizes. **Official Links for PenguBoard** OpenSea: Magic Eden: # Puzzle Summer on Base App
Puzzle Summer is a limited-time leaderboard event running until the end of August. Every spell chess puzzle you solve earns points. The higher your score, the greater your share of the 1% $CHECK token allocation reserved for Anichess Puzzles. Your total score is calculated from all three competitive puzzle modes: * Daily Puzzle Points ×5 * Universe Stars counted directly * Rush Mode Bonus added daily based on your best placement The leaderboard tracks your cumulative score throughout the event. Top performers will earn $CHECK based on final placement when Puzzle Summer ends.
You can boost your score by inviting friends through your Base App referral code: * Each free user earns you +3 energy. * Each premium user gives you +50 points, +1 max energy, and 10% of their leaderboard score. There’s no cap. More friends means more fuel for your climb. 📱 [Play on Base App](https://www.base.org/apps) ▶️ [Play in your browser ](https://anichesspuzzles.com/) Learn mode about Anichess Puzzles → [Spell Chess Puzzles](/anichess/spell-chess-puzzles)/ # Anichess Season 5: Winter Clash {% embed url="" %} Winter Clash lands during the festive season, when the board looks a little colder and games tend to matter a bit more.Season Five introduces a shorter competitive cycle in Anichess and refocuses[$CHECK](https://x.com/search?q=%24CHECK\&src=cashtag_click)rewards into a single competitive path. > Winter Clash holds a total of 1,000,000 CHECK, all distributed through Checkmate Arena, alongside an Anichess Ethernal raffle. ### What’s in Season Five Winter Clash includes three core components: Checkmate Arena, Ranked Mode, and a set of Christmas-themed cosmetics.Checkmate Arena is a buy-in competitive mode using M8. Ranked resets for the season and continues to track Rating-based performance. Cosmetics can be unlocked by playing ranked matches. ### Checkmate Arena Checkmate Arena is a competitive queue that requires an M8 buy-in to enter.Buy-ins are fixed at 5,000 M8. Once entered, you play standard Anichess matches against other Arena participants. Every completed match adds points to your Checkmate Arena score.Wins adds 300 points, a Defeat or a Draw adds 100 points. > At the end of the season, 1,000,000 CHECK is distributed to top players on the Checkmate Arena leaderboard. Rewards scale with leaderboard rank. Top 100 Checkmate Arena players will also enter a raffle to win an Anichess Ethernal.Each Arena entry is treated as its own run. There is no carryover between entries. Playing in Checkmate Arena also ties your activity into Abstract-native progression. ### Ranked Mode Ranked Mode runs in parallel with Checkmate Arena for Winter Clash.The Ranked leaderboard resets at the start of the season. Matches affect Rating as usual, and placement is determined by performance across the season.Ranked does not distribute[$CHECK](https://x.com/search?q=%24CHECK\&src=cashtag_click)during Winter Clash.Instead, it serves as the primary path for rating progression, seasonal cosmetics, and qualification for quarterly Playoffs.Performance in Ranked across consecutive seasons determines eligibility for higher-stakes Playoff events with dedicated prize pools. ### Christmas Cosmetics Season Five includes a set of Christmas-themed cosmetics.These are earned by completing Ranked matches during the season.Complete 10 Ranked matches to unlock the Christmas Background.Complete 25 Ranked matches to unlock the Christmas Chessboard.Complete 50 Ranked matches to unlock the Christmas Chesspiece.All cosmetics are visual only and do not affect gameplay. ### Shorter Seasons and Quarterly Playoffs Starting with Season Five, Anichess seasons will run on a shorter cadence.Not every season will end in playoffs. Instead, playoffs will take place once per quarter.Eligibility is based on performance across three consecutive seasons. Ranked performance is the only metric used for Playoff qualification. The top players across those seasons qualify for the playoff phase.Winter Clash is the first season to run under this structure. ### Getting Started You can participate in Winter Clash through Ranked Mode, Checkmate Arena, or both.Ranked is required to earn seasonal cosmetics and contributes to Playoff. Checkmate Arena requires an M8 buy-in and runs as a separate competitive path where every match counts.Winter Clash is live. Play it through. # Season 6: New Horizons {% embed url="" %} Season 6: New Horizons is a short one, following the sprint tradition we started in Season 5. This is your second window to qualify for the Ranked Mode playoffs, so the stakes are officially live. ### The Checkmate Arena: High Speed, Low Cost
We are changing the pace of the Checkmate Arena to favor more games and faster rotations. → The Buy-in: Dropped to 1,000 M8. → The Points: 500 for a win. 100 for a draw or loss. At 1,000 M8 per entry, the Arena is now about volume and consistency. Get in there and rack up the points. ### The Community Goal (The 1M Match Challenge)
This season, everyone wins together. We’ve set a target of 1,000,000 total matches across all modes. As the community hits these totals, the $CHECK prize pool for the season grows for everyone. → Start: 40,000 $CHECK → 35k Matches: 60,000 $CHECK → 100k Matches: 100,000 $CHECK → 250k Matches: 150,000 $CHECK → 500k Matches: 180,000 $CHECK → 750k Matches: 210,000 $CHECK → 1,000,000 Matches: 250,000 $CHECK > *Please note that rewards do not accumulate* ### How to Qualify & Earn
The total prize pool is split across three Game Modes. Here is how you get your share. → Quick Mode (15% of pool): Play at least 70 matches in Quick Mode. → Ranked (35% of pool): Break into the Top 100 Ranking. → Checkmate Arena (50% of pool): the higher you rank, the more $CHECK you earn. ### The Road to the Top 64 The Ranked Ladder has reset. We are tracking performance across S5, S6, and S7 to decide who makes the Quarterly Playoffs. Only the Top 64 players get in. If S5 didn’t go your way, this is where you make up ground. # SEASON 7: GAMBIT # Season 3 Leaderboard Season 3 finished on February 11th, 2025 and introduced Anichess’s first-ever PvP experience, where you can test your skills and invite friends to join the action. Every match and referral contributes to a growing community, driving the evolution of Anichess. Your journey through Season 3 is tracked through points earned in various match types: * **Quick Matches**: Earn 50 points for a win and 20 points for a loss. Only your first three Quick Matches of the day count towards your leaderboard score, so be strategic with your plays. * **Ranked Matches**: In Ranked Matches, the stakes are higher. You’ll gain 100 points for a win and 40 points for a loss. Only the first three Ranked Matches each day contribute to your score, offering more opportunities to climb the leaderboard. * **Friend Matches**: Challenge your friends and earn 20 points for a win and 10 points for a loss. As with Quick Matches, only your first three Friend Matches of the day will impact your leaderboard ranking. Another way to score points on the leaderboard is by referrals. Points from gameplay and referrals are updated in real-time on your profile. To ensure your leaderboard position, claim your points on-chain through your profile. Only on-chain points contribute to your ranking, ensuring transparency and fairness. To rise on the leaderboard, balance consistent victories in your daily matches with active referrals. The more you play and share, the higher you’ll climb. Season 3 is your opportunity to showcase your skills - push your boundaries and see how far you can go. # Invites Sharing Anichess with others not only helps grow the community but also boosts your leaderboard score: * **Invite Codes**: Each day, you’ll receive three invite codes to share. When someone joins Anichess using your code and completes at least one Quick Match or Friend Match, you’ll earn 100 points. * **Second-Level Invites**: If your friend refers another player who becomes active, you’ll gain an additional 30 points. While invite points are capped at two levels, every successful invite strengthens the community and adds valuable points to your score. # PVP Beta (Coming Soon) As we continue to evolve Anichess, we’re excited to preview several new features that will be introduced in our upcoming Beta release, designed to enhance your gaming experience and offer even deeper strategic gameplay: * **Arena**: Compete in high-stakes tournaments that match you against the best players in the community. Showcase your skills, rise through the ranks, and earn exclusive rewards. * **Fragments**: Collect fragments through gameplay and quest completion. These fragments are the fundamental units for magic creation in Anichess, allowing you to unlock new spells and customize your strategy. * **Spell Crafting**: Use the fragments you’ve collected to craft specific spells or unique skins. Tailor your spellbook to suit your playstyle and surprise your opponents with new, powerful abilities. * **Questing**: Take on challenging quests to earn in-game points, tokens, and fragments. The more difficult the quest, the greater the reward, making each challenge worth the effort. These features are just the beginning. As we move forward, Anichess will continue to expand, offering players new ways to engage with the game and the community. # Spell Chess Puzzles {% embed url="" %} Anichess Puzzles are back, faster and sharper, now live on [anichesspuzzles.com](https://anichesspuzzles.com) and inside the [Base App](https://www.base.org/apps). Built mobile-first, it’s a sleek way to train your brain with a drop of magic. ## What are Anichess Puzzles Each puzzle starts mid-game with a clear goal: win material, survive, or deliver mate. You’ll need classic chess tactics plus Anichess spells. Your performance is scored on speed, accuracy, and hint usage. ## Modes Tutorial Mode is your intro. It’s free and gives you 15 guided puzzles that show how spells work. Daily Puzzle drops two fresh puzzles every 24 hours—one free, one premium for $0.69 USDC. Universe Mode is for long-term progress. Spend 1 energy to unlock any puzzle forever. Solve it once to earn up to 3 stars based on how well you play. Stars are permanent points. Rush Mode is live and fast. You get 3 minutes to solve as many puzzles as you can. Three mistakes and you’re out. Rankings reset every 3 minutes. ### Energy Energy regenerates over time: 1 per hour, up to a max of 5. Tutorial Mode is free. Daily Basic, Universe, and Rush each cost 1 energy per run. You can also buy extra energy using USDC. ### Refferals Use your invite code from the Base App to bring in friends. Free users earn you +3 energy. Premium users give +50 points, +1 max energy, and 10% of their score. # Ethernals the PFP collection {% embed url="" %} ### Mind Over Meta Anichess Ethernals are the genesis collection and the gateway to the Anichess ecosystem. Minted for free by the most loyal early players, the 960-piece set lives permanently on Ethereum. Only 24 are Legendary and 105 are Rare. Each tier is tied to one of six mystical tribes of Mystra. Ethernals serve as onchain proof of presence and progression. Holding one unlocks exclusive in-game skins, early feature access, and evolving utility across Anichess and the wider Checkmate Ecosystem. Every Ethernal also carries access to a share of 10% of the total $CHECK supply. $CHECK can be claimed monthly. #### Official marketplaces OpenSea: opensea.io/collection/anichess-ethernals # Anichess Story {% embed url="" %} **How Anichess was born** The world of Mystra was on the brink of annihilation. A planet blessed with balance, undone by its most powerful species. War, technology, and greed tore it apart, until the Divinities stepped in. From The Void, they delivered a new path: Chess. But not just any chess. Aether-infused, spell-charged, and deeply strategic. Anichess was born — a new system of decision-making that replaced violence with intellect, chaos with tactics, and brute force with foresight. Chess became law. And Mystra became the proving ground. You can read the full origin in [The Parchment of History](/anichess/anichess-story/the-parchment-of-history) & the modern story in [Checkmate Genesis](/anichess/anichess-story/checkmate-genesis) # The Parchment of History
## The Vast Universe and The Enigmatic Void The universe, as we define it, encompasses absolutely everything. Every timeline that has ever begun and every dimension ever created. There are more dimensions than any being can fathom, each existing independent of, and blind to, all others.\ \ The universe also includes The Void, a labyrinthian nether region that undulates between and touches the full boundaries of every dimension, in effect both separating and connecting them all.\ \ Throughout The Void are access points into and out of dimensions. These portals remain locked in times of balance but can be opened to allow for adjustment of the universal makeup and to restore balance.\ \ The Void is our domain. We are The Divinities. And we oversee all.
## The Divine Siblings: Guardins of Existence We are The Divinities.\ \ A consortium of six siblings, each embodying one of the forces needed for existence...\ \ TYDE summons Water. Volatile as an ocean, calm as a bay, they pool, they rain, they flood.\ IGNIS brings Fire. He warms, he burns, he melts, he spreads. And he explodes.\ ACRE molds Earth. With clay, mud, sand, and stone, he amasses the land and carves the landscape.\ TEMPEST commands Storm. Her fury humbles. She is lightning; she is hail; she is whirlwind.\ SENTINEL controls Aether. Gravity and the space between spaces are his to wield. The portals from The Void that lead into every dimension are his to open and shut.\ \ And I am EPOCH, mistress of Time and keeper of this Parchment of History. Without me, nothing can happen. I am yesterday and tomorrow. I am the beginning of all things. And I will be the end.\ \ For eternity, from The Void, we have presided over the universe and maintained the balance. We decide the fate of worlds, of galaxies, of dimensions.
## Mystra: A World Seeking Harmony The world of Mystra began as most life-sustaining worlds begin. The primordial crucible, with its infinite array of outcomes, yielded a planet with a perfectly balanced mix of elements. Only one in a trillion is so fortunate.\ \ Or perhaps, unfortunate.\ \ As can occur, a species grew to dominance, with the capacity to shape the world to its liking. They were a great mix of impulses. They were capable of many of the gifts of existence, including humor, art, music, love, empathy, engineering, and critical thought, but also a modicum of its more dangerous vices, like avarice, deceit, jealousy, and spite.\ \ Predictably, their evolution was one filled with great advances and mired in tragic setbacks. As typically happens with such species, their technological prowess often exceeded their emotional maturity, and there came a time when the power of their creations became so volatile as to threaten their own very existence. Most species do not survive this equation. The odds of disaster increase with each successive conflict and every new miscalculation.\ \ And war is the exponent that brings inevitability.\ \ Petty differences and greed turned into hate and violence. That violence expanded from isolated local feuds into full-scale, nearly constant global wars. The land and air and seas paid a terrible price. The planet's favored species, to whom all had been gifted, was blindly murdering their home. And sealing their own fate alongside it.\ \ It was at this time that we, the Divinities, took notice.
## Sentinel's Quest: Embrasing Mystra's Path to Balance At Sentinel's summons, we convened to decide the fate of Mystra.\ \ The people of Mystra had shown such promise -- they had advanced so far -- but an unlucky turn had enabled them to unlock a terrible power. A technology whose use over time threatened not just their world but the entire dimension. There were other worlds and peoples, early in their development, that would blink out of existence if Mystra was allowed to destroy itself.\ \ We did not let that happen.\ \ The six of us agreed that Mystra should be saved.\ \ But the people could not be left to their own devices again. We would have to provide them with guidance and deliver a new paradigm. One that would eliminate weaponry and warfare while installing a balanced system of governance and arbitration that all would obey.\ \ Sentinel took it upon himself to search for such a system. He opened the Portals within The Void and reached his senses out into every dimension of existence.\ \ This brought him to a tiny world called Earth.\ \ There were many nations on Earth, each with its own ideology and brand of government. But even the most successful were mired in inequity and susceptible to instability. They would not suffice. Still, the sense of something else drew Sentinel closer -- a game that had transcended the nations of Earth and endured for more than a millennium. A game so precise and balanced that it was unimpeachable.\ \ A game called Chess.\ \ From the shadows, Sentinel observed tournaments unfolding where masters dueled; parks where strangers of all walks jousted; children's rooms where families and friends faced off; clubs at institutions of learning where the intricacies were taught and practiced; and even individuals on public transportation, testing their mettle against AI programs on hand-held devices.\ \ No matter what theme or aesthetic the pieces took, the principles and the moves were the same. And the game was so beloved, respected, and consuming, at any given time, somewhere on Earth, a board was being set, and a new match was afoot.\ \ Sentinel had found Mystra's solution.
## Sentinel's Legacy: Shaping a Harmonious World He brought Chess into The Void to the rest of us, and it was instant kismet. The balance was inescapable -- six pieces to play the game, six Divinities to wield them.\ \ What's more, each of us was immediately drawn to a specific Chess piece...\ \ The Pawn made Tyde gush.\ \ The Knight made Ignis blush.\ \ The Bishop made Tempest sparkle.\ \ The Rook made Acre quake.\ \ The Queen sang to me.\ \ And the King filled Sentinel with awe.\ \ Perfectly matched, the six of us went to work...\ \ Our bodies are hewn from an ore called Arellium. It is the only substance in existence dense enough to house our magic. With great effort, we can sacrifice a piece of ourselves and fashion this ore into physical instruments that can be sent from The Void to do our will.\ \ We call these instruments ORBS.\ \ One by one, each of us set out to harvest and shape our Orb and infuse it with our unique power.
## Tyde and the Pawn of Water Do not judge Tyde by their size. Their diminutive frame holds the key to life itself. Kid-like and fanciful, they have a buoyant nature, with a communal spirit that seeks to lift others up. Still, their passions run deep -- so deep you can drown in them.\ \ They have a preternatural curiosity and a thirst for experience. They watch in wonder every time a new dimension takes shape, endlessly fascinated by the slightest nuance. Because of this irrepressible enthusiasm, the other Divinities, myself included, have to remind ourselves that Tyde is not a child.\ \ The constant drain of time has not jaded them in the least. I wish it were so for me.\ \ Tyde siphoned their Arellium into the shape of the Pawn. Focusing inward, they touched the calm pools within themself and set them to swirling...\ \ Deeper and deeper, faster and faster, the vortex lifted Tyde into the air, head bent low, arms stretched wide. Until their eyes and the floodgates sprang open, and geysers of pure ethereal water magic erupted from each of their limbs, splashing through the air and colliding together to form a single surging stream.\ \ The Arellium Pawn lit from within, and a siren's song called out to the stream, which rose into a massive swell and then swept into the Orb like a massive wave breaking onto shore.\ \ The Void around Tyde shook and pulsed until finally, the deluge dried, and the water Divinity flopped to the floor, utterly spent, gasping for breath.\ \ They lay there, drained and soaked, while the newly minted Pawn of Water glowed with life and power,\ \ With Tyde's magic rippling within it, the Pawn of Water emits a cool and pacifying presence. The energy it gives off is wistfully optimistic, as if it is eternally gazing at a bright horizon and seeing the promise of a new day.\ \ Its guiding characteristic is an eagerness for whatever the moment requires. Even sacrifice. And while it holds the power of sweeping change that can wipe a world clean, its magic bestows sustenance, triggers growth, and inspires transformation.\ \ A symbol of life, it represents resilience and adaptability, a tribute to water's relentless flow.
## Ignis and the Knight of Fire The Divinity Ignis is as impulsive and innovative as the fire magic he wields. All it takes is a spark to set him off, and the path he blazes never moves the same way twice. He can be brash and severe, indiscriminately lashing out, consequences be damned, but there's a mesmerizing charm to him that draws one in and enlivens the imagination.\ \ He is pure emotion, and we count on him to remind us of where we come from and what's in our hearts. He keeps us from overthinking. But sometimes he must be tempered. No matter what happens, no matter how painful an experience, Ignis shrugs it off and moves on. He forgets trauma and remains pure.\ \ I envy this. I can never forget.\ \ Ignis melted his Arellium into the shape of the Knight.\ \ A light sparked within his eyes, and a ball of fire erupted above like a sun taking in its first breath. The temperature of the entire Void rose as Ignis fed and fanned the flames. Like laughter, they peaked and fell, and the inferno swelled larger and more magnificent with every lick.\ \ When it could be contained no longer, the fireball exploded, blowing Ignis off his feet and sending him sprawling to the ground in a smoldering heap.\ \ Ash burned off the Arellium Knight, leaving it immaculate and glowing. Ignis managed to lift his head to gaze upon his new creation. He mustered a satisfied grin before promptly passing out.\ \ Within the Knight of Fire's smooth frame, licks of flame forever flutter, and tiny combustible crackles and pops eternally echo. It emanates a heat that quickens the heart and fevers the skin, reminding all who feel it that great power should be feared and cannot truly be contained.\ \ Its magic delivers destructive and adrenalizing might, while also illuminating new paths and possibilities. It embodies courage and unexpected maneuvers, representing the spark that can alter the dynamics of any situation.\ \ The Knight of Fire stands as a spirited emblem of ambition and determination, provoking the will to conquer.
## Tempest and the Bishop of Storm Where Ignis suddenly explodes, Tempest prefers to announce her presence and intentions. Supremely confident and strategic, she warns you before she acts, savoring the anticipation as much if not more than the moment of truth. She knows her force is unstoppable.\ \ Her ferocity builds and can grow to mind-numbing and fear-provoking fury, but always there is a calm at her center. It can frustrate her that we, her siblings, know we can count on this -- that as wild as she can seem, she never loses control.\ \ But there is also a freedom she feels from being understood on such a deep level. It allows her to let loose, push her own boundaries, and glimpse her full potential.\ \ Tempest carefully carved her Arellium out of herself and into the shape of the Bishop.\ \ Then she sat there and stared at it for what felt like a lifetime, contemplating the emptiness she would fill, taking pleasure in its simplicity. The quiet before the storm.\ \ Until, with the snap of her fingers, a pulse of electricity cast at the Orb's center. Flickering faintly, appearing to go out, and then finding steady purchase. A chilling wind picked up all around the Storm Divinity, taking her aloft and turning her hair into a cyclone. The entirety of her body brightened into a blinding white light, until the edges of her silhouette bled with static, and in a flash, she became a single ferocious bolt of lightning that struck the Arellium Bishop precisely in its heart. The accompanying thunderclap rolled throughout The Void.\ \ Then, again... quiet.\ \ And Tempest slept, starting the long recharge, with her newly dawned Bishop of Storm devoutly standing guard.\ \ Twisters of energy crisscrossed with sharp stabs of light infinitely frolic within The Bishop of Storm. A low and constant rumble resounds ominously. When you hear it, you cannot help but feel that it's coming for you.\ \ Its movements are purposeful, altering the course of events and precipitating rapid transformation in its wake. With the power to change the board and scatter the pieces, all take notice when The Bishop of Storm takes flight.\ \ Being both dreadful and wondrous, its magic incites fear and stimulates devotion.
## Acre and the Rook of Earth Acre is the strong silent type. Ponderous and purposeful, his conclusions are impeccably drawn, and it's impossible to move him from a considered stance. The Void can go eons without a word from him, so when he speaks, we listen.\ \ Reliable and resilient. practical and reasoned. If there is a bottom line, Acre always finds and defends it. He keeps us honest and humble, which is no small feat.\ \ Of course, however, his actual feet are enormous -- and his shoes, therefore, almost impossible to fill.\ \ Acre would tell me that humor is timeless, which is why I should refrain from employing it. I cannot argue.\ \ Acre harvested his Arellium from deep within his gut and magically compressed it into the shape of the Rook.\ \ He focused, and from within, the rook filled with luminescent sand, each grain a glowing star. With an arch of his brow, a rich soil filtered in, so dark it absorbed all light from the sand.\ \ Then Acre spread his arms wide and brought his great hands together in a deafening clap. The sand and soil fused into smoldering magma. The magma cooled into jagged rock. The rock crystallized into sleek diamonds. And finally, the diamonds joined together to form a stalwart core of solid earth magic.\ \ Hunger brought Acre to one knee, and he solidified there in that pose, like a statue, replenishing himself as he slept.\ \ Rooted deeply like an unyielding bastion, the Rook of Earth is a testament to steadfast resolve. It stands its ground, undeterred by shifting landscapes, reflecting the power of patience and determination.\ \ Its surface appears bejeweled, reflecting the beauty that's possible when planetary forces are left to their own devices. It is the product of great care, nurturing, and love. These values inspire loyalty, which the rook embodies.\ \ It stands as a symbol of protection and dependability, never yielding in the face of challenge. Never shaken, forever stable.
## Epoch and the Queen of Time I suppose it's high time I shine the history keeper's light on myself...\ \ I am Epoch. I orchestrate the ebb and flow of events, leaving history in my wake and safeguarding the secrets of the future.\ \ Some have called me relentless and uncompromising. I prefer to think of myself as precise. I lead by example, setting the rules and following them faithfully. Are they strict? Are they exacting? Of course. If I were any less exacting, the universe would descend into chaos with nothing to hold on to. Time provides mooring.\ \ For this reason, my mind is impenetrable, and I cannot be distracted. You can count on me, and I count and keep track of you and everything else.\ \ It is not lost on me that in my absence, there would be no death. No expiration dates. This is a cause of sadness for many, and they often curse me.\ \ But remember, I also heal all wounds.\ \ I cannot give up a hand, even for the short period it would take to grow back. So, I severed a foot to provide the Arellium needed and magically eroded it into the shape of the Queen.\ \ Spinning clockwise on one leg, as steadily as two, arms entwining in a delicate dance, my magic manifested into a swirl of ticking stardust around me.\ \ The first spires rose slowly from the vortex, testing the air and then spiraling down toward the waiting Orb. Recognizing its scent, they spread around its sleek shape, picking the spot of entry, then seeping gently in. More spires sprang as my momentum increased, following the same path.\ \ The Queen started spinning to match me, brightening with every revolution, until a burst erupted out so intense it turned the entirety of The Void gold for an instant.\ \ All but I had to screw their eyes shut. Mine burned but persevered as I witnessed the grandeur of the Queen of Time's completion.\ \ Tall and proud and gilded in regal radiance, there's nowhere the Queen of Time can't go. Nothing it can't see. Every square, every corner is its domain. Its reach is limitless; its rule absolute.\ \ The power it wields is unmatched. The power of foresight and recall. The power to whither. The power to heal.\ \ The other pieces march, glide, or go step-by-step. The Queen struts, every stride bold with authority and governance. And when it moves, a hush descends, and time seems to stop, leaving the rest of the board suspended with wonder. Breathless. Waiting to witness... What. Will. Transpire. Next.
## Sentinel and the King of Aether Sentinel understands the universe better than anyone. He is in touch with the forces that shape it, and he is our eyes into any dimension.\ \ Infinitely patient and even-tempered, Sentinel's scholarly demeanor can be off-putting. He is a logician and it's almost impossible to get a rise out of him. It can be done, however, with persistence and if you know the right buttons to press, but you may not like the results. He can eviscerate with his intellect, and his sense of humor goes over most beings' heads. So, you may not even realize you've been eviscerated.\ \ He can make things disappear in a blink -- sent into the vacuum of space, or, for devices, ideas, and occasionally beings deemed too dangerous for existence, into the unseen prison that is the space between spaces. He wields this power sparingly, of course. In the hands of someone less conscientious, it could be disastrous.\ \ Responsible to a fault, he always sees the big picture and puts the balance of existence ahead of even his own fortune.\ \ With all his considerable strength, Sentinel rubbed his palms together, painfully flaying Arellium dust that hovered in the air and accumulated into the form of the King.\ \ He then plucked out an eye and vanquished it into the center of the piece, bringing the ethereal blue glow of his iris to each of its windows. The eye surveyed its new environs, then closed in deep contemplation. In the quiet of those thoughts, Sentinel built a bridge and transferred his power into the new Orb.\ \ This would allow the six Orbs to physically travel from The Void into Mystra's dimension. This would allow the power they each had been imbued with to fully express in that plane of existence.\ \ But the transmission of his power left Sentinel shaken and feverish. Not merely nearly mortal, but also completely detached from his magic. He needed to seek me out for healing and the regeneration of a new eye. Until that was complete, he would be vulnerable...\ \ The focus of all endeavors ultimately finds the King of Aether. In this way, the piece is magnetic. Like a body of great mass in space, it attracts and pulls other masses toward and around it. Some of these masses protect it; others attempt to bombard it. But the piece itself has so much gravitas, it barely moves.\ \ The King's gaze is bright and meaningful. It radiates with importance, humbling those around it and inspiring awe, jealousy, respect, and fear. The magic it possesses can expel impurity, smite enemies, bolster allies, or even make them invulnerable. It has the power to shape and change reality and thus must be handled with great care.\ \ As long as the King of Aether survives, there is hope.
## The Birth of Anichess and the Promise of Lasting Harmony In the aftermath of creating our Orbs of Power, as we began the long recuperation needed to reclaim our strength, a deep satisfaction permeated through the six of us. We all felt it -- an understanding that we were setting in motion a solution that would greatly benefit Mystra and bring the potential for lasting stability to its dimension.\ \ The people of Mystra had endured centuries of strife and violence. It touched every family in every society. The collective and generational trauma of their past was like a great ache that all had surrendered to and believed to be everlasting. We could feel their pain and hopelessness and the deep, sad, futile wish for change.\ \ Chess was the gift that would set them free.\ \ On Earth, it is a game that takes a lifetime to study, with nearly limitless combinations of moves and responses, and no match exactly the same. The rules are precise, but within them, there is room for creativity and innovation. Each player's individual vision and spark alters how the game unfolds and what becomes possible.\ \ With our magic added to it, the contest would take on a new hue. One that brings immediacy and a greater call for spontaneity. Every turn could see a game-changing development that could alter the lines and necessitate a shift in strategy. The contest would become an event that, like a more frenetic sport, would hold the promise of moment-to-moment excitement and thereby draw in the imagination of spectators.\ \ In this manner, it has the allure to entice and build an enduring commitment that can resonate with all walks of life. What other system of governance can claim this?\ \ Once installed, no longer would the capacity to destroy determine what ideas or people had power. As the new arbiter of all decisions and disputes for Mystra, Chess would deliver a future devoid of bloodshed. One where resources could be spent on the betterment of society and the safety and health of all. Champions would represent nations, boards, corporations, movements, individuals, and even ideas, with skill and prowess becoming the only measure of victory and success.\ \ A true meritocracy.\ \ But first, we must rest...
## Shadow of Betrayal: the Unforeseen Threat of Chance's Rebellion Ignis awoke, still drained from the Orb-creating effort but able to summon the strength to rise. He patted the newly minted Knight of Fire and, on unsteady feet, returned to the central chamber, ready to gloat that he was the first of us to revive.\ \ What he saw stopped him in his tracks.\ \ Chance, our vassal, a powerful immortal himself but subservient to the Divinities, was standing above the unconscious Sentinel, weaving a spell.\ \ If the six of us are a royal court, Chance is our jester. He would be one of us save that his magic is volatile and unpredictable, and therefore impossible to rely on. In what we do, dependability is paramount -- balance depends on it. But there are times when we've required the assistance of his unique powers. Creation almost always includes a modicum of luck -- either bad or good -- and accident -- happy or otherwise. The nature of Chance's power delivers just that.\ \ He had always served faithfully, albeit with a slightly surly edge. What he was doing at this moment, alone with weakened and wounded Sentinel, Ignis could not guess. But it was highly irregular.\ \ "Chance!" Ignis exclaimed, interrupting the jester's incantation. "Your magic is not necessary here. Sentinel will revive without assistance, and Epoch will heal him to full body and strength."\ \ Chance turned to face the Fire Divinity, nodding agreement. "To be sure, Ignis. My apologies." He bent his head in supplication, and Ignis relaxed. "But that is precisely what I am trying to avoid!" the Jester spit.\ \ He thrust his arms forward and a black web of magic erupted from his fingertips, darting straight for Ignis. Nothing catches my fiery brother by surprise -- he has a hair trigger and can flare instantaneously. His Fire magic would easily extinguish the Snare Chance had unleashed.\ \ Usually, but not this day.\ \ His body lit with flame, but in his weakened state it sputtered, and the black tendrils took hold and slammed him to the far wall, painfully pinned.\ \ Chance smiled, satisfied, and stepped forward as Ignis struggled futilely against his bonds.\ \ "I've waited for a moment like this. When the six of you are spent. I've been patiently stirring pots, knowing eventually one would boil over and require the full attention of the Divinities."\ \ He tilted his head like a curious kitten, his face a breath from my brother's. "After all, the six of you are nothing if not... predictable."\ \ He reversed course with a flourish, heading back toward Sentinel.\ \ Ignis pushed and pressed for a spark, but it would not come. "I will kill y--!" With a flick of his wrist, Chance sent another tendril that bullseyed Ignis' mouth, silencing him.\ \ "So much bravado. Do not worry. When I have Sentinel's other eye, I will make you my right hand."\ \ Now, Ignis understood -- this was a coup. If Chance could excise Sentinel's remaining eye before the other was regenerated, Sentinel's immortal life would end, and Chance would acquire the sight and power of Aether. Able to define reality in a blink of thought, the rest of the Divinities would be at his mercy.\ \ The would-be usurper closed in on Sentinel again, and all Ignis could do was watch... # Checkmate Genesis
If Anichess was born of gods, *Checkmate Genesis* is the story of mortals. A tale where chess meets rebellion, and the board becomes a battleground for meaning. Set in a fractured Mystra long after the Orbs fell, *Checkmate Genesis* follows the arrival of two humans from Earth: Iris, a 19-year-old Grandmaster turned reluctant icon. Fame made her a star. Mystra made her a believer. She spreads chess like gospel, reigniting her own passion in the process. Kai, a quiet genius and fast-food worker. Brilliant but overlooked, he finds purpose training warriors in Mystra's Divine Temple. But his hunger for meaning leads him into dangerous alliances. In their orbit is Scherif, the first teacher of Mystra. Fiercely loyal to Iris, suspicious of Kai. And Pilgrim, her greatest student turned adversary. Seduced by chaos. Recruited by the Cult of Anarchy. At the center of that cult is Anatoli, the Fallen Grandmaster. Resurrected by Chance, driven by madness. Once a pariah on Earth, now a prophet of disruption. Checkmate Genesis tells what happens when chess decides fate and mortals carry the cost. Notably, it even folds the real into the myth. The characters of Ronggo and his son Reybara appear within the tale, honoring two of Anichess' earliest supporters. To read *Checkmate Genesis*, visit [Voyce.Me](https://www.voyce.me/series/checkmate-genesis). # Checkmate Ecosystem
Anichess is the first launch partner of the Checkmate Ecosystem, a global initiative focused on fostering strategic and competitive minds through community-owned games. By adopting the $CHECK token, Anichess will leverage the ecosystem's support to integrate this digital currency into our platform, amplifying the network effects within the Checkmate Ecosystem. For more information, visit [Checkmate Ecosystem](https://checkmate.foundation/). # $CHECK The Strategy Token $CHECK token litepaper
### TL;DR — What is $CHECK? $CHECK is the Strategy Token for the Checkmate Ecosystem. It powers creation, competition, and identity across games, generative AI experiences, education, and collectibles. It turns skill, learning, and creativity into measurable onchain value. Live anchor: [Anichess](https://anichess.com/)- founded by Animoca Brands and official Web3 game partner of [Chess.com](http://chess.com/), building the next evolution of chess through a unique spell-based gameplay system and Web3 integration. By combining the depth of traditional chess with innovative mechanics and blockchain ownership, Anichess creates an esport-like experience for a new generation of players Total supply: 1,000,000,000\ Over 59% allocated to community and ecosystem growth. ### Why $CHECK Most digital systems reward motion, not strategy. They track clicks, loops, and attention — not progress, insight, or intent. The Checkmate Ecosystem was built to change that. $CHECK is the Strategy Token — a way to measure and reward skill, creativity, and deliberate action across a growing network of experiences. It connects competition, creation, and collaboration through one shared economy built on merit and contribution across the many Checkmate Ecosystem experiences. It is about rewarding the decisions that shape outcomes — the plays, builds, and ideas that move the network forward. The Checkmate Ecosystem exists for those who think before they act. And $CHECK is how that thinking gains value. ### Checkmate Ecosystem The Checkmate Ecosystem is a decentralized network built for strategic minds. It connects competitive play, generative AI (Gen AI) creation, vibe-coded products, education, and collectibles through a single onchain economy powered by $CHECK, the Strategy Token. $CHECK turns skill, learning, contributions, and creativity into measurable onchain value. It lets people compete, build, and learn through experiences that reward intent and innovation At launch, the network is anchored by Anichess, a Web3-native chess experience developed by Animoca Brands in collaboration with Chess.com, with the goal to bring over 600 million chess lovers onchain. $CHECK integration into Anichess is planned and will roll out in stages, expanding real utility as new applications join the network. Potential future integrations to expand the network include the use of $CHECK in competitive programs, merchandising, and fan experiences, partnerships with Web2 and Web3 platforms; and King’s Gambit, a new fast-paced, skill-based survival title expanding the Anichess universe into casual competition. Within Anichess itself, $CHECK will power core game systems, from high-stakes Gambit Mode to ranked and content seasons, enabling players to buy in, compete, earn, and craft NFTs through fragments, cosmetics, and rewards that all connect back to the shared Checkmate economy. Together, these integrations mark the foundation of a broader vision that this litepaper explores across creation, competition, and intelligence. ### The Strategy Network
The Strategy Network is the living framework of the Checkmate Ecosystem. It unites creation, competition, and intelligence, three pillars that link the network’s products, partners, and communities through $CHECK utility. #### Gen AI Creation {% embed url="" %} VibeCheck: Build, vote, and earn through Gen AI-assisted creativity. Users and creators collaborate with intelligent tools to design games, experiences, and content, all vibe-coded and rewarded in $CHECK. Every creation can be owned, voted on, and evolved by the community, forming an open cycle of innovation powered by collective intelligence. #### Competitive Play From skill-based arenas to global tournaments, $CHECK fuels competition that rewards performance over participation. Players enter events, earn rewards, and collect cosmetics that mark their progress. Anichess is the first arena to demonstrate this model at scale, with $CHECK integration rolling out in stages. #### The Intelligence Network Learning, identity, and community converge here. Achievements, rankings, and creative milestones become part of each player’s digital passport, serving as proof of intellect and contribution across the ecosystem. As education, collectibles, and community programs merge under one identity layer, $CHECK turns personal growth and creative reputation into shareable onchain value. ### $CHECK — The Strategy Token $CHECK is the core currency of the Checkmate Ecosystem. It powers creation, competition, and collaboration across the network, turning every meaningful action into measurable value. With a fixed supply of 1,000,000,000 tokens, $CHECK forms the economic layer that rewards skill, intent, and contribution. #### Core Utilities
#### Compete and Earn Use $CHECK to enter tournaments, ranked matches, and skill-based events. Rewards are distributed based on verified performance, not volume. Competitive milestones and leaderboard achievements may also qualify for event-based airdrops as the ecosystem evolves. #### Stake for Progression Stake $CHECK to earn Mate Points (M8), non-transferable in-game points that unlock progression perks, boosts, and exclusive features in the Anichess ecosystem. M8 reflects consistency and commitment. #### Create and Curate Creators use $CHECK to publish Gen AI initiatives, products, and educational content. Top-rated, community-approved submissions receive $CHECK rewards, forming a cycle of merit-based contribution and recognition. #### Collect and Access Use $CHECK to acquire digital collectibles, cosmetics, and in-game assets tied to ecosystem milestones. Token-gated experiences and drops provide access to advanced tools, exclusive events, and learning modules. #### Sponsor and Govern $CHECK holders can support community missions, co-sponsor tournaments or educational programs, and vote on Checkmate Improvement Proposals (CIPs), guiding grants, integrations, and ecosystem direction. ### Governance and Infrastructure The Checkmate Ecosystem is designed around progressive decentralization. Governance begins with a structured phase led by the core team, built to establish stability and alignment before expanding responsibilities to the community. Over time, $CHECK holders will drive key proposals through CIPs, supported by a DAO Council that ensures decisions stay consistent with the network’s long-term vision. #### Infrastructure Layer
The ecosystem runs on shared standards that connect play, creation, and identity across all applications. Digital Passport: Records player achievements, creations, and progress onchain. Asset Framework: Standardized structure for fungible ($CHECK) and non-fungible assets. Data Registry: Transparent tracking of rankings, matches, and governance actions. This foundation keeps the network open, verifiable, and shaped by the community that builds it. ### Tokenomics Overview
$CHECK has a fixed supply of 1,000,000,000 tokens. The distribution is built for longevity, rewarding skill, creation, and contribution while sustaining the network’s growth and stability. Its structure ensures long-term alignment between creators, players, and the ecosystem itself. * **Player Rewards (39.38%)** will have 5% unlocked at TGE, with the remainder vesting over the subsequent 36 months. * **Ecosystem & Treasury (20.0%)** will have 0.5% unlocked at TGE, with equal vesting over the subsequent 39 months. * **Investors (13.62%)** will have 0% unlocked at TGE, a 6-month cliff, and the remainder vesting over the subsequent 18 months. * **Team (10.0%)** will have 0% unlocked at TGE, a 12-month cliff, and the remainder vesting over the subsequent 40 months. * **Liquidity (7.0%)** will be fully unlocked at TGE. * **Operational Expenses (4.0%)** will have 2% unlocked at TGE, with the remainder vesting over the subsequent 10 months. * **Advisors (4.0%)** will have 0% unlocked at TGE, a 4-month cliff, and the remainder vesting over the subsequent 16 months. * **Kaito Launchpad (2.0%)** will be fully unlocked at TGE. ### Launch Game Partners Anichess is the first live application within the Checkmate Ecosystem, developed by Animoca Brands in partnership with Chess.com, the world’s leading chess platform with over 200 million users. It showcases how $CHECK connects strategy-based gameplay with digital ownership at scale. {% embed url="" %} The results speak for themselves: over 340K players, 100K monthly active users, and more than 6 million minutes of gameplay, with over ten professional players already competing, including Magnus Carlsen and Anish Giri. $CHECK integration is planned to roll out in stages, connecting Anichess players to the broader Checkmate Ecosystem. Through this process, players will be able to join skill-based tournaments, stake $CHECK for Mate Points (M8), access exclusive cosmetics, and participate in governance and community-led events. Another title to be rolled out shortly after TGE will be King's Gambit a hyper-casual chess-inspired rogue-like survival game, primed for both web & mobile. Targeted to launch on both iOS & Google Play Store in Q4 for distribution and web2 onboarding.
{% embed url="" %} As the ecosystem grows, the same model will extend beyond Anichess Gen AI creation, educational initiatives, and collectible-driven products, expanding the definition of strategy across the Checkmate Ecosystem. ### Beyond the Board $CHECK goes beyond games. It builds a network where intellect, creativity, and competition converge, forming a connected economy powered by strategy itself. Each integration expands its reach, from education and AI to digital culture. What began on the board now defines how intelligence creates value onchain. ### Disclaimer PLEASE READ THE ENTIRETY OF THIS "DISCLAIMER" SECTION CAREFULLY. NOTHING HEREIN CONSTITUTES LEGAL, FINANCIAL, BUSINESS OR TAX ADVICE AND YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR OWN LEGAL, FINANCIAL, TAX OR OTHER PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR(S). NO PERSON OR ENTITY AFFILIATED WITH CHECKMATE ECOSYSTEM OR REFERRED TO IN THIS LITEPAPER SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT OR INDIRECT DAMAGE OR LOSS WHICH YOU MAY SUFFER IN CONNECTION WITH ACCESSING THIS LITEPAPER, THE CHECKMATE ECOSYSTEM OR ANY OTHER WEBSITES OR MATERIALS PUBLISHED BY THE CHECKMATE ECOSYSTEM OR USING THE $CHECK TOKEN. Informational Purposes Only This litepaper is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute a prospectus, an offer document, an offer of securities, a solicitation for investment, or any offer to purchase, sell or otherwise transact in any product, item or asset (whether digital or otherwise). This litepaper is also not a recommendation to acquire $CHECK tokens or to participate in the Checkmate Ecosystem. This litepaper is subject to change. This litepaper has not been filed or registered with, or reviewed by, any regulatory authority. You are responsible for ensuring that your ownership of the $CHECK token and participation in the Checkmate Ecosystem is permitted by the laws applicable to you. No such action or assurance has been or will be taken under the laws, regulatory requirements or rules of any jurisdiction. If it is not lawful under your jurisdiction of residence to access this litepaper or use the $CHECK token, you must cease all such access and/or usage immediately. Forward Looking Statements The information contained in this litepaper may include or incorporate by reference forward-looking statements which would include any statements that are not statements of historical fact. Functionalities of the Checkmate Ecosystem and usages of the $CHECK token are subject to governance votes by the token holders and forward-looking statements may fail to materialize if not approved by the token holders. In addition, no representations or warranties are made as to the accuracy of such forward-looking statements. Any projections, forecasts, and estimates contained in this document are necessarily speculative in nature and are based upon certain assumptions. These forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong and can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, most of which are beyond control. It can be expected that some or all of such forward-looking assumptions will not materialize or will vary significantly from actual results. In addition, holders of the $CHECK token may vote to advance the Checkmate Ecosystem in a manner that deviates from the manner set out in the litepaper. No Reliance The information herein may not be exhaustive and does not imply any element of a contractual relationship. There is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of such information and no representation, warranty or undertaking is or purported to be provided as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. Where this litepaper includes information that has been obtained from third party sources, Anichess or any person or entity affiliated with the Checkmate Ecosystem has not independently verified the accuracy or completion of such information. Further, you acknowledge that circumstances may change and that this litepaper may become outdated as a result; and Anichess or any person or entity affiliated with the Checkmate Ecosystem is not under any obligation to update or correct this document in connection therewith. Nothing contained in this litepaper is or may be relied upon as a promise, representation or undertaking as to the future performance of the Checkmate Ecosystem or the $CHECK token. Notwithstanding anything else in this litepaper, Anichess or any person or entity affiliated with the Checkmate Ecosystem does not make or purport to make, and hereby disclaims, any representation warranty undertaking or covenant in any form whatsoever to any entity or person, including any representation, warranty, undertaking or covenant in respect of any matter. No Distribution No part of this litepaper is to be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of Anichess.
# Staking
Stake $CHECK at [anichess.com/staking](https://anichess.com/staking) to earn M8. Built on Abstract. Two pools are available depending on your player history. ### **2/F Queen of Time Statue — OG Pool** For Season 1-4 and Ethernal holders only. • Stake your entire $CHECK balance (no partials) • One-way: once unstaked, you cannot re-enter • Earn M8 while staked • Permanent 5x multiplier on Checkmate Reign emissions • Game rewards and Ethernal drops can be claimed directly into this pool \ The OG Pool rewards loyalty. Leaving means permanently losing the 5x multiplier. ### **1/F Timewish Fountain — Public Pool** Open to all players. • Flexible staking and unstaking • Earn M8 while staked • Earn Checkmate Reign rewards at 1x rate
### Checkmate Reign Checkmate Reign is a 50,000,000 $CHECK reward program distributed over 24 months to all stakers. Retro bonuses reward those who stay staked at months 6, 12, 18, and 24. For full Checkmate Reign details, see the full announcement on[ X.](https://x.com/AnichessGame/status/2021626031724278080?s=20)
# Official Links Website: Puzzles: Telegram Game: Discord: X: Medium: Youtube: Instagram: TikTok: Checkmate Genesis, webcomic: Anichess Ethernals: MiCA Whitepaper for $CHECK: {% file src="/files/X3GtaArlhR9O4KpEXlZP" %} # Release Notes
At Anichess, we’re continually improving the game to enhance your experience. This section highlights the latest updates, new features, bug fixes, and improvements designed to keep gameplay exciting and fresh for all players. # Version 0.1.1
Release Date: Oct 14, 2024 ## What's New & Improvements ### Game Modes **Quick Match:** * **"Match found" screen** has been removed. Players now enter the game immediately for a smoother experience. **Ranked Match:** * **Decline button** has been removed from the "Match found" screen, ensuring uninterrupted matchmaking. * **Rematch button** has been removed after ranked games to encourage more varied matchups. **Bot Match:** * A **Rematch option** is now available at the end of each bot game for quick and easy practice. ### UI & Navigation Enhancements **Game Entry:** * The **entry Carousel** has been removed, taking players directly to the Play lobby for faster access. **Sound Settings:** * **Default sound settings** have been updated to enhance the in-game audio experience. **Inventory & Unlocks:** * **Spell Copy Changes** are now live and accessible for eligible players in the inventory. ### Bug Fixes **Matchmaking Progression:** * A bug where players with **Ranked Match** unlocked were incorrectly prompted to complete **Quick Match**again has been fixed. * Minor performance improvements for smoother gameplay. # Version 0.1.2
**Release Date:** Oct 17, 2024 ## What's New & Improvements ### Game Modes **Battle Screen:** * Improved UX for deselecting spells, making spell management smoother during gameplay. * Enhanced visibility of the timer for clearer game tracking. **Queue System:** * You can now cancel while in queue for both Quick and Ranked matches, giving you more control over matchmaking. ### UI & Navigation Enchancements **Inventory:** * Selection UI updated for clearer indication of chosen boards and pieces. **Lobby:** * The tutorial can now be easily revisited via the 3-dots menu for quick access to gameplay tips. **Resign Menu:** * Button order has been optimized to make it easier to keep playing or resign from a match. **Battle Screen:** * Opponent spells are now more visible for better strategic planning. **Sound Settings:** * Sound preferences are now saved automatically between sessions, ensuring consistency in your audio settings. **First Time User Experience (FTUE)** * A prompt has been added allowing players to skip the tutorial for faster onboarding. ### Bug Fixes * Fixed an issue where Quick Match would still find a game after the player had already left the queue. # Version 0.1.3
**Release Date:** Oct 24, 2024 ### What's New & Improvements **Anichess Guide:** * A guide for users to learn about Anichess has been added to the website's main navigation under "Guide" **Rank Match - Match Found:** * Player's information will now be automatically hidden upon match found, proceeding directly to the match. **Play/Spell Selection Screens:** * Updated to include Halloween-themed backgrounds for a seasonal experience. **Battle Screen - ELO Rating Display:** * Now shows the opponent's ELO rating during the match for better competitive visibility. **Ability to view opponent's profile and match history:** * Players can click on their opponent's name in the match history and ELO rating leaderboard to view their profile. **Inventory Tab Order:** * Rearranged the inventory tabs for a more intuitive user experience. **Battle Screen - Spell Order Consistency:** * Spells in the battle screen will now appear in a consistent order to streamline spell display. **Quick Match - Bot Match Fallback:** * In the absence of available players, a bot match will automatically serve as a fallback option in Quick Match mode. **Battle Screen - Move Rewind After Game End:** * Players can now rewind moves after the game ends to review the match. # Version 0.1.4
**Release Date:** Nov 1, 2024 ### What's New & Improvements **PVP - Lite Variant (Quick Match Only):** * Introducing the new PVP Lite variant, available exclusively in Quick Match mode. Designed for new players learning Anichess, this variant allows players to focus on mastering one spell and defending against one spell at a time, offering a faster, more accessible match experience for strategic learning. **Enhanced Match History with Time Display:** * Added hour and minute (HH/MM) details to match history entries and updated the UI for improved clarity and tracking of past games. **Friend Match Enhancements** * Players can now choose to play as either black or white in Friend Matches, adding flexibility and preference options for friendly competitions. **Customization Options** * Added a setting in Skin options allowing players to view skins as either their own color or as white, enhancing personalization and visibility in matches. **Tutorial & Onboarding** * The "5 random spells" screen has been removed in the revisit tutorial flow to streamline the experience for returning players. **Bug Fixes** * Implemented multiple bug fixes to enhance stability and improve overall gameplay experience. # Version 0.1.5
**Release Date:** Nov 8, 2024 ### What's New & Improvements **Friend Match - Lite Variant** * Introducing the Lite Variant for Friend Matches, allowing players to enjoy a more streamlined version of gameplay with friends. This variant provides a quicker and more casual experience, perfect for friendly competitions. **Match History** * Enhanced Match History - Match Type Indicator. We’ve updated the Match History to include match type information, helping players easily distinguish between different game modes and review their past performances with greater clarity. **Navigation Enhancements** * Spell Screen - Back Button. To improve navigation, we’ve added a back button at the top left of the spell screen, allowing for easier access and seamless transitions within the game. **Gameplay Adjustments** * Resignation/Draw RestrictionsIn QM/FM/RM game modes, players are now restricted from resigning or offering a draw within the first 2 minutes. This change encourages more competitive matches and promotes engagement during the initial phase of the game. **Analytics Enhancements** * Improved Game Analytics. We’ve enhanced game analytics to provide deeper insights into player behaviors and preferences. These analytics improvements will help us make data-driven decisions for future gameplay improvements, ensuring a more engaging and balanced experience for all players. *** # Version 0.1.6
**Release Date:** November 14, 2024 ### What's New & Improvements **Spell Improvements** **Tactical Necessity Spell** * Introduced the Tactical Necessity Spell, providing players with strategic options for mid-game adjustments. This new spell expands tactical diversity and gameplay depth. **Imposter Spell Fix** * Fixed a bug related to the Imposter Spell where players were unable to castle after using it. Now, players can enjoy the intended functionality, enhancing gameplay flow and strategic options. **Juke Spell Removal** * The Juke Spell has been removed to streamline gameplay and improve balance across spells and abilities. **Lite Variant - Improved Matchmaking** * Matchmaking for the Lite Variant has been optimized to reduce queue time, providing a faster and more accessible experience for casual players. **Festive Themes** * Removed Halloween-themed art with plans to bring back special festive themes in the future. # Version 0.1.7 Release Date: November 29, 2024
### What's New & Improvements **Draw/Resign Restriction** * Players can no longer offer a draw or resign during the first 2 minutes of the game. If attempted, an error message will be displayed. This change is designed to prevent premature game-ending decisions and encourage longer, more strategic gameplay. **Skins and Customization** * A new Standard Chess Skin has been added and set as the default appearance. This skin brings a classic chessboard aesthetic, offering a more traditional visual experience for players. **Rank match search optimized** * The Rank Match system has been improved to allow players to search for opponents within a specific ELO radius. This adjustment ensures more balanced matches and reduces wait times for finding opponents. #### Spell Improvements **Shot in the Dark** * Mana cost reduced: 5 → 3. Casts increased: 2 → 3 This buff allows for more frequent use of the Shot in the Dark spell, enhancing its utility during games. **Bis-hop** * Mana cost reduced: 6 → 4. Casts increased: 2 → 3 Bis-hop’s adjustments make it a more accessible and reliable tool for players in the heat of battle. **Tactical Necessity** * Mana cost reduced: 3 → 1. Casts increased: 2 → 3. The Tactical Necessity spell is now more cost-effective, allowing players to make strategic adjustments more freely during mid-game.
# Version 1.1.0 Release Date: December 12, 2024 ### What's New & Improvements **Spell Improvements** * Shift Spell: Now steals 1 mana from opponents * Slip Spell: Now steals 1 mana from opponents **New Features** * Battle Screen Timer: A popup appears after 90 seconds of inactivity, with 30 seconds before auto-resign. * Replay Flip Board: Watch replays with a new board-flipping option. **Improvements** * Disconnection Timer: Extended from 1 to 2 minutes for better reconnection chances. * Match History: View up to 50 matches, up from 30. * ELO Leaderboard: Moved to for easier access. **Bug Fixes** * Tutorial: Fixed tutorial issues to ensure smoother onboarding. # Version 1.2.0 Release Date: January 2, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Features** * **Winning/Losing Screen Update**: Added **user names** to the winning/losing screen for better personalization. **Improvements** * **Match History Update**: Added **Match IDs** for easier reference. * **Spell Selection Screen**: Removed the confirmation popup when navigating back for a smoother experience. * **Friend Match**: Renamed "Play a Friend" to **"Friend Match"** for clarity and consistency. **Cosmetic Updates** * **Moca Skin Launch:** Introduced the new **Moca Skin**, which can now be unlocked by **winning one Ranked Match**, adding more customization options. **Spell Improvements** * **Tactical Necessity**: Updated unlock requirements to **playing 1 Friend Match** # Version 2.1.0 **Release Date:** January 17, 2025 *** ### What's New & Improvements **Missions** * **Moca Missions have been extended until February 15, 2025**, giving players more time to complete challenges and earn rewards. Stay tuned for new missions coming soon! **New Skins Added** * **Exclusive Bybit Skins** are now **unlocked** for **Blitz Cup participants** * **Base(by Coinbase) Skins** have been introduced but remain **locked** for now. More details on unlocking them will be announced soon. # Version 2.2.0 Release Date: February 5, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Features** * Lobby Update: The Anichess logo now links directly to [Anichess.com](http://anichess.com/) for easy access. * Match ID Display: Match IDs are now visible on the Battle Screen for better tracking. **Improvements** * Mana Wheel Optimization: Enhanced performance and responsiveness of the Mana Wheel during battles. * Battle Timer Update: Changed the countdown timer color for better visibility and clarity. * Default Spells: All new users now start with the same 5 foundational spells: 1. Slip 2. Parkour Mech 3. House Recruit 4. Bis-Hop 5. Imposter **Ranked Match Unlock Requirement Adjusted:** Previous Requirement: Win 5 Quick Matches. New Requirement: Complete 5 Quick Matches. # Version 2.3.0 Release Date: February 12, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Features** **New Spell: Pengu Dive** 🐧✨ * Ability: Teleport one of your pieces (excluding pawns) to an empty square within a 3x3 area around it. Acts as a turn. Mana Cost: 4 Charge: 3 **New Game Mode: Bullet (3 min + 2s increment)** ⏱️♟️ * The **30-minute mode has been removed** and replaced with a **fast-paced Bullet mode (3 min + 2s per move)** **Spell Balancing Updates** **Queen Time** 👑⏳ * New: Now allows a knight, bishop, or rook to move like a queen once per turn, but cannot capture the king. Cost reduced to 7 Mana. Capped at 1 cast. **Shift** * Spell has been removed # Version 2.4.0 **Release Date: Feb 13, 2025** ### What's New & Improvements **Spell Unlock Criteria Update** * Shot in the Dark: Now unlocks after winning 3 ranked matches (previously 10 friend matches). * Queen Time: Now unlocks after completing 5 quick matches (previously 10 quick matches). **Lobby Enhancements** * Anichess Logo Update: Now opens in a new tab and directs players to [Anichess.com](http://anichess.com/) for quick access. * Leaderboard Tab: A temporary leaderboard tab has been added to direct users to the ELO leaderboard. **Gameplay Fixes & UI Enhancements** * Castle Rule Bug Fixed * Inventory UI Fix: Improved text readability in the inventory screen. # Version 2.5.2 Release Date: February 21, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **Improvements** **Spell Select** * Text updated to **"CHOOSE 3 SPELLS"** for better clarity. **Game Mode Select** * Lite mode repositioned to the left side with updated text for an improved user experience. **Rank Match** * Player search radius now dynamically updates every 10 seconds to enhance matchmaking. **Inventory** * Standardized wording for unlock messages to maintain consistency. # Version 3.1.4 Release Date: March 6, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Features** **Spectator Mode** * *(Closed Beta)* – A select group of testers can now experience matches in real-time. **Increased Time Before First Move** * Players now have **90 seconds** instead of **30 seconds** before making their first move. **Improvements** **Match Making** * Some players experienced being stuck on the "Match Found" screen. **Castling Issues Resolved** * Fixed errors affecting castling mechanics for a smoother gameplay experience. # Version 3.2.0 Release Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **Match Making** * Resolved an issue where games could get stuck at the "Match Found" state, ensuring smoother transitions into gameplay. * Implemented ecovery logic to handle rare cases where players remained stuck at the match found stage. **(Beta Testers only) Spectator Mode Enhancements** * Spectators can now view the skin sets of the accounts they are watching, enhancing visual fidelity and identity. **Game URL Improvements** * Match IDs are now embedded directly into the game URL, improving shareability and enabling easier access to specific matches. # Version 3.2.4 Release Date: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Cosmetics** * [**Chess.com**](http://chess.com/) - now unlocked for participants of [Chess.com](http://chess.com/) Pre-Season Cup * **HatchKings** - Added to in-game inventory and will be unlocked for eligible players * **Meatbags** - Added to in-game inventory and will be unlocked for eligible players **Improvements & Fixes** **Match Making** * Enhanced queue time for a smoother Experience **Optimized Loading Time** * Improved loading time on selected devices # Version 3.3.0 Release Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Notice Board** * A brand new Notice Board has been introduced! Click or press "What's New" for the latest updates, features, and events happening in the world of Anichess. **Spell Returns: Juke & Shift** * The Juke and Shift spells are back in rotation! Ready your strategies—these tactical spells are once again part of the active spell pool. #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Fair Play Warning** * A Fair Play Warning will now be shown during matchmaking queues, promoting a more competitive and respectful environment. **End of Match M8 Reminder** * Players will now see a reminder to claim their M8 daily rewards at the end of each match to ensure no rewards go unclaimed. # Version 3.4.0 Release Date: Monday, April 28, 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Spell: Pounce and Purr** * Ability: Leap a piece to an adjacent empty square. Then, stun one opponent piece (excluding kings) within 1 square of the landing spot for 1 turn. Mana Cost: 5. Casts: 2 #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Spell Adjustments** * Juke now also steals 1 mana from opponent. **Text Update** * Updated some In-Game Cosmetics texts from the inventory tab. # Version 3.5.0 Release Date: Tuesday, May 20 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Player Profile** A brand new Player Profile is now accessible directly from the Anichess Home Page at [www.anichess.com](http://www.anichess.com)  * Players can now view their entire collection within the Player Profile * Players can watch video demonstrations of spells * Players can now share match replays easily via dedicated links — perfect for showing off your best plays #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Quick Resign in Friend Matches** * Players can now **resign instantly** during Friend Matches, making for a smoother and more respectful match-ending experience. # Version 3.6.0 Release Date: Tuesday, May 28 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **Season 4 live** * Players can earn M8 Points based on both effort and skill level throughout the season. For full details and reward breakdown, visit [Anichess.com](http://anichess.com/). **New Background Music (BGM)** * A new background music track will now play when a player's timer drops below 20 seconds, adding tension and urgency to those final moments on the board. **Timer Update** * When a player's timer drops below 20 seconds, the countdown will now display in milliseconds, giving players precise control in clutch moments. **Bad Eggs Cosmetics** * Added to in-game inventory and will be unlocked for eligible players **Spell Balance Updates** * Tactical Necessity: casts increased: 3 → 5 * Pengu Dive: Mana cost reduced: 4 → 3, casts increased: 3 → 5 * Imposter: casts increased: 2 → 3 * Juke: casts increased: 5 → 6 * Shift: casts increased: 5 → 6 ### Improvements **Time Mode** * Bullet has been renamed to Flash to better reflect the fast-paced nature of the mode. **Spell Description Update** * All spell descriptions have been updated for improved consistency and clarity. # Version 3.7.0 Friday, June 6 2025 Spell Update ### What's New & Improvements ![:wrench:](https://a.slack-edge.com/production-standard-emoji-assets/14.0/apple-medium/1f527.png) Spell Update
**Shot in The Dark** * Moving through a piece that is invisible caused by Shot in The Dark will no longer capture it. The piece will only be captured if another piece lands directly on that square. **Queen Time** * Players can no longer cast Queen Time on your opponent's pieces. # Version 3.8.0 Release Date: Tuesday, June 17 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Features** Cosmetic Selection via Profile * Players can now customize and equip in-game cosmetics directly from their Player Profile page. View Other Players' Profiles * You can now view other players' profiles by clicking on their names from the leaderboard. **Improvements** Spell Animation Timer Sync * Timers for both players will now pause correctly during spell animations, ensuring fair and synchronized play. Mobile Compatibility Fix * Resolved an issue where the game failed to load on certain mobile devices. Anichess should now launch smoothly across more platforms. # Version 3.9.0 Release Date: Friday, June 20 2025 ### What's New & Improvements **New Spell: Transcendence** * Ability: Transcend the boundaries of the physical realm, allowing a piece to harmoniously traverse the board's left and right edges once. Can capture. * Mana Cost: 4 * Casts: 3 **New Cosmetics** * GimmeCat - Added to in-game inventory and will be unlocked for eligible players # Version 4.0.0 Release Date: Tuesday, 9 September 2025 ### What's New & Improvements ### New Features **Revamped Anichess Lobby** * The lobby has been redesigned and moved from in-game to the official website for a smoother experience. **Ranked Matches** * Ranked mode now only supports one time control — Blitz (5|2). **Cosmetic Customization in Sub-Lobby** * Players can now equip and customize their in-game cosmetics directly from the sub-lobby menu. **Spell Previews** * Spell preview videos are now available at the spell selection screen. ### **Spell Balance Updates** **Transcendence** * Now costs 5 Mana with 3 casts (previously 4 mana with 3 casts). **Pounce and Purr** * Now each cost 4 Mana with 3 casts (previously 5 mana with 2 casts). # Version 4.1.0 Release Date: Thursday, 11 September 2025 ### What's New & Improvements ### New Features **Demo / Tutorial Mode** * Added a new Demo mode for players who don’t yet have an Anichess account. Logged in users will see it as Tutorial mode. **Custom Matches** * Players can now share a match URL directly with their opponent, who can paste the link to enter the game without needing a code. #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Battlefield-style pages** * The URL will now update correctly when changing items. **Ranked Match Fix** * Users can no longer bypass access by entering through the URL if the mode has not yet been unlocked. # Version 11.1.0 Release Date: Thursday, 18 September 2025 ### What's New & Improvements ### New Features **Login System** * Completely revamped login flow that no longer requires email verification. **Abstract Global Wallet** * Now supports seamless login and transactions via Abstract Global Wallet. **Pudgy Takeover** Anichess has been taken over by Pudgy Penguins, bringing a brand-new Pudgy-themed experience. **Pudgy Skins** * Fresh Pudgy-themed skins have been added for players to unlock and enjoy. **Pudgy Loading Screen** * The loading screen has been updated with a new Pudgy-themed design. **Default Pudgy Skin** * The default skin set has been changed to Pudgy Sunset. ### Improvements & Fixes **Connection Stability** Fixed issues that were causing unstable connections during gameplay. **Interface Cleanup** Removed select text elements across the app for a cleaner, more streamlined user experience. **Rematch Fix** Resolved several bugs that occasionally prevented players from rematching correctly. # Version 12.2.0 Release Date: Tuesday, 14 October 2025 ### What's New & Improvements ### New Features New Spell: Pengu Blast ![:penguin:](https://a.slack-edge.com/production-standard-emoji-assets/14.0/apple-medium/1f427.png) ![:bomb:](https://a.slack-edge.com/production-standard-emoji-assets/14.0/apple-medium/1f4a3.png)
* Ability: Deploy up to a maximum of 3 bombs in any orientation between the 3rd and 6th rank. Detonates after 3 turns, eliminating all pieces in the blast zone. * Mana Cost: 5 * Bullets: 3 ### Improvements Ranked Mode available to everyone * Ranked Mode should now be unlocked immediately across all players Spell Unlocks * Pengu Blast, Transcendence and Pounce & Purr should now be unlocked immediately across all players Pudgy Skin * Reach 1300 Rating to unlock the Pudgy Puff Cosmetics. Adaptive skin removed * Adaptive skin setting has been removed. Mobile UI * Visual update for mobile loading screen # Version 12.2.1 Release Date: Tuesday, 14 October 2025 ### New Features M8 Daily Mission Interface * Users can now view their earned M8 points and mission progress. Points accumulated will be distributed later when claim goes live. ### Improvements Pengu Blast Fix * Resolved disconnection issue when using Pengu Blast.
# Version 12.4.0 Release Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025 ### Improvements Performance Optimization & Faster Load Times * Reduced overall game build size by approximately 20%, improving load times and ensuring smoother performance on older devices. Spell Bug * Tactical Necessity will now unlock properly after completing a custom match.
# Version 13.1 Release Date: Friday, Nov 21 2025 ### Improvements **Game Assets Improvement** * Game assets have been compressed to reduce file size and improve loading performance, all while maintaining high visual quality to ensure smooth gameplay experience. **Graphic Enhancement** * Appearance clarity and color have been optimized for improved visuals during gameplay. Expect crisper graphics and better color distinction.
# Version 13.8 Release Date: Friday, Dec 19 2025 #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Ranked Ladded Ratings have been reset** * With the start of Season 5, the ranked ladder has been reset to 1200. All players start the Seasonal climb again. **Spell Updates** * Transcendence: Now costs 6 Mana with 2 casts. Can no longer capture King. * House Recruit: Now costs 5 mana to cast. * Imposter: Now costs 4 mana to cast. # Version 13.9.2 Release Date: Tuesday, Jan 20 2026 #### **Improvements & Fixes** **Spell Adjustments** * Pengu Dive casts reduced from 5 → 4 * Pounce & Purr casts reduced from 3 → 2 **Visual Changes** * Default skins reverted to classic * Loading screen reverted to classic # Version 14.2.0 Release Date: Thursday, Mar 19 2026 ### Major Updates **Gambit Mode (Alpha)** * A brand-new high-stakes mode where players compete in winner-takes-all matches. Random **Spells for Gambit Mode** * Disabled spells: Shot in the Dark, Shift, Juke **Casual Mode has been removed**\ **Checkmate Arena is now gated by time** * Opens between 11:30AM – 1:30PM (UTC) **Players can earn M8 through playing Standard Mode (renamed from Ranked)**\ **Referral System** * Players can now generate and share referral URLs directly from their profile. **Spell Update** **Unlock requirement for spells have changed** * Default Spells: Pengu Blast, Transcendence, Parkour Mech, Slip, House Recruit, Bis-Hop 2.0, Imposter * Complete 1 Match: Queen Time, Shift * Complete 2 Matches: Juke, Tactical Necessity, Pounce And Purr * Complete 3 Matches: Shot in the Dark, Penguin Dive #### Bug Fixes **Gambit Timer Fix** * Timer should now tick properly **Gambit Mode Castling Fix** * Castling should no longer cause the game to freeze # Version 14.2.1 Release Date: Thursday, Mar 20 2026 ### Bug Fixes **Spell Cast Counter** * The spell cast counter now displays correctly. **Gambit Leaderboard Points** * Player scores are now properly synced with the leaderboard. **Gambit Leaderboard Display** * Player rankings on the Gambit leaderboard will no longer display as 0. **Player Profile** * Player profile statistics are now accurately reflected. **Match Result Portrait** * Player portraits in Gambit match results now display correctly. **Rematch** * Players can now rematch in modes that support this feature. # Version 14.2.3 Release Date: Wednesday, Mar 25 2026 ### New Features **Skip Spell Animation (Gambit Mode)** * Players can now skip spell animations by tapping or clicking during the animation, helping save time on the move timer. **New Spell: Power Infusion** * Ability: Promote the rank of a piece (Highest to Rook). Act as a move. Every cast lowers the cost by 1. 6 Mana, 5 Casts. ### Improvements **Gambit Time Control** * Increased the time increment in Gambit from +2 seconds to +4 seconds to better offset animation delays. # Version 14.2.5 Release Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 ### New Features **Additional Spell** * Power Infusion has been added to the Gambit Spell Roster. ### Bug Fixes **Player Time Out Issue** * Player now sees that their opponent has made their moves. ### Improvement **Gambit Mode** * The delay caused in Gambit Mode drastically reduced. # Version 14.3.0 Release Date: Friday, April 24, 2026 ### Improvements In preparation for Season 8, a major spell rebalancing has been made. **Shift** * Can now target Queen, Rook, and King Now gains +2 mana (previously cost 1) Increased to 99 casts **Tactical Necessity** * Now gains +4 mana (previously cost 1) **Queen Time** * King can now be captured directly again **Slip** * Mana steal increased: 1 → 2 **Parkour Mech** * Mana: 3 → 2, casts: 2 → 3 **Bis-Hop 2.0** * Mana: 4 → 3, casts: 3 → 6 **House Recruit** * Mana: 5 → 4, casts: 3 → 4 **Juke** * Can now move up to 2 spaces vertically, casts: 6 → 7 **Transcendence** * Mana: 6 → 5, casts: 2 → 3 **Pengu Blast** * Drop zone expanded: Ranks 3–6 → Ranks 2–7 **Pounce and Purr** * Casts: 2 → 3 **Pengu Dive** * You can now cast on pawns **Shot in the Dark** * You can now cast on Queen. Mana: 5 → 6, casts: 3 → 2 **Imposter** * Can now be cast on Pawns and King **Power Infusion** * Mana: 6 → 8, casts: 6 → 7 # Creator Assets Download official Anichess assets for streaming, videos, and social content [Anichess Logo](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HaNHj3zd-nZ1rt6QOYY2S9ikQofXPbxO?usp=drive_link) [$CHECK logo](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ni9hBvcO9RWQxYvjMMiLiYYmNwp2NCLE?usp=sharing) [Spell Icons](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/11l0gSeiWt2DNNSQoO2-1oFuZ8nqvB9hu) [Art & Banners](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16TkrECTIfjhKDI5WM2beWJkh6edIa7xL?usp=sharing) [PVP Gameplay Images](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17GOdL2lK3g5MVm8KTBfXQbw767rSP8iU?usp=sharing) [Anichess | Game Trailer](https://youtu.be/PXwMm2awKqw) [Magnus x Anichess](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-WS_Ng73RmfMXmArGZXp-6FiTH-mbeyt?usp=drive_link) [Stream Backgrounds & Spell Rules](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1UFiaHXozyAK4RPdhMFz_vkh7Y2WBfkju?usp=sharing)