Simply Chess similar games & best alternatives
Simply Chess
2015
Related articles
Quick resume
The classic board game comes to Steam with asynchronous online play and 100 levels of AI. If you are a chess enthusiast or someone who just likes to play a game now and again, this is what you've been looking for. This is Simply Chess.
Global score
74/100
Genres
Casual, Free To Play, Indie, Strategy
Pros
- Free to play with optional premium
- 100 ai difficulty levels
- Online multiplayer with elo ranking
- Simple, clean interface
- Relaxing music
Cons
- Limited online player base and matchmaking issues
- No game analysis or move history
- Basic graphics and ui
- Occasional bugs and crashes reported
- No story or additional game modes
Motivations
-
Autonomy4
"Players freely choose moves and strategies in a classic chess game with no forced routines."
-
Competence5
"The game offers 100 AI difficulty levels and online play, providing strong skill challenges and feedback."
-
Competition4
"Includes ranked online multiplayer with ELO ratings and leaderboards, encouraging comparison with others."
-
Continuation3
"Players engage in long sessions and level progression, with some reviews noting habitual play and achievement hunting."
-
Cooperation-4
"Chess is inherently a 1v1 competitive game with limited cooperative elements; mostly independent play."
-
Creativity-3
"Gameplay follows strict chess rules with minimal customization beyond cosmetic options."
-
Domination2
"Competitive multiplayer and ranked matches imply exerting superiority, though no reports of toxic domination."
-
Escapism3
"Players use the game as a relaxing distraction with soothing music and casual or serious play."
-
Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily out of personal interest and enjoyment rather than obligation."
-
Experimenting2
"Players experiment with different strategies and AI levels, though within fixed chess rules."
-
Exploration-5
"Chess has a fixed board and no new areas or secrets to discover."
-
Expression1
"Some customization of board and piece appearance allows limited self-expression."
-
Fantasy-5
"The game simulates realistic chess with no fantasy or fictional elements."
-
Fellowship3
"Online multiplayer and community features foster a sense of belonging among chess players."
-
Growth5
"Learning and skill development are core, with AI levels supporting gradual improvement."
-
Health-5
"Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."
-
Idle-3
"Requires focused attention during turns; not typically played as background or idle activity."
-
Intimacy-3
"Social interactions are mostly surface-level competitive matches rather than close relationships."
-
Leadership-4
"No leadership roles; players act independently or equally in matches."
-
Progression3
"Progression through AI levels and achievements provides a sense of advancement."
-
Relaxation3
"Music and gameplay support a relaxing, thoughtful experience for many players."
-
Sensation-2
"Sensory input is moderate and calm; no intense visual or auditory stimulation."
-
Status3
"Online rankings and achievements offer recognition and social status."
-
Story-5
"No narrative or story elements; pure abstract gameplay."
-
Strategy5
"Chess is a deeply strategic game requiring planning, logic, and problem solving."
-
Thrill2
"Some suspense in competitive matches and timed moves, but overall controlled environment."
-
Value5
"Free to play with optional low-cost premium; good return for time invested."
-
Violence-5
"No violent or destructive content; purely abstract board game."
-
Survival3
"Players must avoid losing the king and manage threats, reflecting survival aspects in gameplay."
Similar games
Last update: 06/03/2026