Frequently asked questions
Can I play offline?
Yes. Two-player games on the same device and games against the computer work without internet: the computer calculates its moves on the device. The challenge to a friend uses a QR code, a link or a code that you send yourself, with no server.
Do I need to create an account?
No. The app asks for no account and no email address. Each game is saved on the device after every move, and can be exported in PGN format.
Can I play with a friend remotely?
Yes, move by move: after each move, the app shows a QR code, a link or a code to send to your friend, who replies the same way. On the same Wi-Fi, a live game is also possible after scanning a QR code. These exchanges are still being fine-tuned on real phones.
How strong is the computer?
The computer has 8 levels. Its thinking time ranges from 50 ms at level 1 to 4,000 ms at level 8, and the first levels play a share of random moves (35% at level 1 and 15% at level 2). The strength of each level has not been measured: no rating is claimed.
Is a position repeated 3 times a draw?
Not automatically. When the same position occurs 3 times, or after 50 moves by each side with no capture or pawn move, the app offers "Claim a draw". The draw becomes automatic at 5 repetitions or after 75 moves.
Is there a clock?
No. The app has no clock and no time limit: everyone plays at their own pace. Only the computer limits its own thinking time, depending on the level chosen.
Can I replay a game found elsewhere?
Yes. The app imports a game in PGN format or a position in FEN format, pasted or opened from a file. Only the main line is kept: variations and comments are ignored.
When will the app be available?
The Échecs app has not been released yet. iPhone and iPad versions and an Android version are planned; no date has been announced. The app page will provide the store links as soon as it is released.