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Play Overview
Really Bad Chess (2016) is like chess but with random pieces selected for each player. Try 8 Knights, 4 Bishops, and 3 pawns. Starting positions are also non-standard. It sounds like a bad idea (hence the name) but actually opens the imposing chess challenge to newcomers.
Play involves taking on different scenarios using the standard chess moves. The pieces start in different places each time, and you have a different collection to work with. The result is a surprisingly engaging puzzle game.
You will take on a range of weaker opponents and this will be much easier than trying to play the proper game. But as the opponents and scenarios get harder, the real joy in chess emerges. It's an approach that levels the playing field for newcomers and experts and is an excellent first step for children.
There's a daily challenge that lets you take on higher-ranked board setups. There are also leaderboards that you can climb as you complete different levels.
Really Bad Chess makes highly unconventional choices about reinventing the game of chess. In doing so, it not only makes it accessible but does away with the stuffiness, memorisation and openings that can put so many people off the classic game. It's a bit bonkers, and because of that it clearly isn't a replacement for the real thing -- but it is a lot of fun.
Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked Really Bad Chess 3 years ago. It was re-examined by Ollie Robertson and updated 3 weeks ago.
Play involves taking on different scenarios using the standard chess moves. The pieces start in different places each time, and you have a different collection to work with. The result is a surprisingly engaging puzzle game.
You will take on a range of weaker opponents and this will be much easier than trying to play the proper game. But as the opponents and scenarios get harder, the real joy in chess emerges. It's an approach that levels the playing field for newcomers and experts and is an excellent first step for children.
There's a daily challenge that lets you take on higher-ranked board setups. There are also leaderboards that you can climb as you complete different levels.
Really Bad Chess makes highly unconventional choices about reinventing the game of chess. In doing so, it not only makes it accessible but does away with the stuffiness, memorisation and openings that can put so many people off the classic game. It's a bit bonkers, and because of that it clearly isn't a replacement for the real thing -- but it is a lot of fun.
Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked Really Bad Chess 3 years ago. It was re-examined by Ollie Robertson and updated 3 weeks ago.
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Play Style
This is a Brain Game and Sequencing game with Puzzle elements. This is a single-player game.
You can play this game in the following styles:
Benefits
Age Ratings
This game includes adverts on some platforms that are watched to unlock additional content. Note that these adverts are not covered by the age rating and may include older-rated content.
Skill Level
6+ year-olds usually have the required skill to enjoy this game. Still, it’s important for parents and guardians to ensure they understand in-game purchases and have spending limits set-up. The simple rule-flip approach to chess opens it to very young children, who can (if they want) graduate into the traditional more static game of chess.
Costs
Really Bad Chess
There are the following additional costs associated with this game:
- In-Game Purchases: Additional in-game purchases are offered for items that enhance the experience.
- Advertising: Smartphone or Tablet version of this game includes adverts. This varies in form but watching ads is often incentivised by unlocking additional content and progress in the game. Note that these are not covered by the age rating and may include older-rated content.
As well as playing via Apple Arcade, you can play a free version of the game and then pay to unlock the full version. You can also purchase undo tokens to help your play.
It's important to set up your accounts and devices appropriately. More information is on our Financial Resources page.
Game Details
Release Date: 13/10/2016, updated in 2017
Out Now: Android, iOS and iPhone, iPad
Skill Rating: 6+ year-olds
Players: 1
Genres: Brain Game, Sequencing and Puzzle
Accessibility: 0 features documented (Tweet Developer )
Components: 2D Overhead, Grid and Text
Developer: Helvetica (@Helvetica)
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Written by parents for parents, the database complements the in-depth discussion about video game addiction, violence, spending and online safety in the Taming Gaming book. We are an editorially independent, free resource without adverts that is supported by partnerships. |
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