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Simply Chess

Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux • 2015

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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

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players freely choose moves and strategies in a classic chess game with no forced routines."

  • Competence
    5

    "The game offers 100 AI difficulty levels and online play, providing strong skill challenges and feedback."

  • Competition
    4

    "Includes ranked online multiplayer with ELO ratings and leaderboards, encouraging comparison with others."

  • Continuation
    3

    "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."

  • Domination
    2

    "Competitive multiplayer and ranked matches imply exerting superiority, though no reports of toxic domination."

  • Escapism
    3

    "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."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "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."

  • Expression
    1

    "Some customization of board and piece appearance allows limited self-expression."

  • Fantasy
    -5

    "The game simulates realistic chess with no fantasy or fictional elements."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Online multiplayer and community features foster a sense of belonging among chess players."

  • Growth
    5

    "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."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through AI levels and achievements provides a sense of advancement."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "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."

  • Status
    3

    "Online rankings and achievements offer recognition and social status."

  • Story
    -5

    "No narrative or story elements; pure abstract gameplay."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Chess is a deeply strategic game requiring planning, logic, and problem solving."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Some suspense in competitive matches and timed moves, but overall controlled environment."

  • Value
    5

    "Free to play with optional low-cost premium; good return for time invested."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violent or destructive content; purely abstract board game."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid losing the king and manage threats, reflecting survival aspects in gameplay."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026