Know the Rules
Every champion started with the basics — explore the official rules of chess with interactive examples and visual guides.
Interactive Rule Explorer
Click on any rule card to expand and learn more
Keep exploring rules to increase your mastery!
Did You Know?
The en passant rule was introduced in the 15th century to prevent pawns from bypassing each other.
The word "checkmate" comes from the Persian phrase "shah mat" meaning "the king is helpless".
A pawn that reaches the 8th rank must be promoted — even if it gives checkmate!
The fastest possible checkmate is "Fool's Mate" and can happen in just 2 moves!
There are more possible games of chess than atoms in the observable universe!
The longest chess game theoretically possible would last 5,949 moves.
Ready to Compete?
Now that you know the rules, test your skills and join the chess community!