Lichess is a free and open-source internet chess server, developed by Thibault Duplessis and maintained by a community of volunteers. Its core feature is providing a full-featured platform for playing chess online, including various game modes, puzzles, and extensive learning tools, all without advertisements. It was primarily built for chess enthusiasts of all skill levels, from complete beginners learning the rules to grandmasters seeking high-level competition and analysis. Users typically open Lichess to play a quick game, solve tactical puzzles, analyze their past games, or study openings and endgames. It is accessible via web browser, and offers dedicated mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices.
Why It’s Useful
While Chess.com is very popular, Lichess stands out by offering an entirely free, open-source experience with no paywalls for any feature, including advanced analytics and video lessons. For the budding chess player, Lichess offers a comprehensive suite of learning tools, from interactive lessons to tactical puzzles and game analysis, fostering rapid skill development. For the seasoned player looking to deepen their strategic understanding, its powerful Stockfish engine analysis can identify subtle mistakes and optimal moves in their games. Lichess is 100% free and open-source, supported by donations, with no paid features whatsoever. A powerful but often overlooked feature is its "Study" tool, allowing users to create interactive chess lessons and share them with others, complete with engine analysis. Its lack of aggressive marketing and focus on community-driven development means it doesn't always attract the same attention as commercial platforms. It has a highly active and passionate community, with frequent updates, new features, and a commitment to transparency.
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