ChessWorld.net, founded in 2000, is an online chess site. Play relaxed, friendly correspondence-style chess — with online daily, turn-based games — at your own pace.
Chess Rules Explained Clearly
Learn the official rules of chess in simple language. Below are visual diagrams showing exactly how every piece moves.
Basic Rules
- Each player starts with 16 pieces.
- White moves first.
- The goal is to checkmate the opponent’s king.
- You may not leave your king in check.
How the Pieces Move
Movement
Capture
Rook
Moves any number of squares vertically or horizontally.
Bishop
Moves diagonally any number of squares.
Queen
Moves like a rook and bishop combined.
Knight
Moves in an L-shape and can jump over pieces.
Pawn
Moves forward, captures diagonally.
King
Moves one square in any direction.
Special Rules
Castling
The king moves two squares toward a rook and the rook jumps over. Not allowed if in check or passing through check.
En Passant
A pawn may capture an opposing pawn that has just moved two squares forward.
Pawn Promotion
When a pawn reaches the final rank, it must be promoted.
How the Game Ends
Checkmate
The king is in check and cannot escape.
Stalemate
No legal move but not in check — draw.
Draw Rules
- Threefold repetition
- 50-move rule
- 75-move rule (automatic)
- Insufficient material
🎯 Beginner Chess Guide
This page is part of the Beginner Chess Guide — A structured step-by-step learning path for new players covering chess rules, tactics, safe openings, and practical improvement.