1.4.7 Safe to install
A Unique Twist on Traditional Chess

Really Bad Chess reinvents the classic game by introducing randomized pieces and unexpected challenges, making it an entertaining diversion for both casual and seasoned players.
Really Bad Chess offers a unique twist on the classic game of chess with its random arrangement of pieces. The game features variations such as 8 Knights, 4 Bishops, and 3 pawns, providing a fresh and unpredictable experience.
As featured on NPR's Weekend Edition, this game has received stellar reviews, earning it a perfect 5-star rating. TouchArcade praises Really Bad Chess as "an essential puzzle experience for anyone even remotely interested in strategy games."
Whether you're a seasoned chess player or just beginning to learn the game, Really Bad Chess introduces a whole new world of possibilities. It allows you to challenge an AI opponent in Ranked, Daily, or Weekly Challenges with the free version of the game. You can also improve your skills through Freeplay mode. Unlocking the Versus Mode through a single in-app purchase provides the opportunity to compete against friends locally, removes ads, displays captured pieces, and offers soothing alternate color palettes.
The Verge describes Really Bad Chess as a game that makes chess enjoyable even for those who aren't skilled at it. Applenapps notes that it feels more modern than traditional chess, while Pocket Gamer deems it "a lot of fun" despite its unconventional concept. MacLife simply states that it is "really good fun."
The developer of Really Bad Chess shares his perspective, expressing his initial aversion to traditional chess due to its commitment to beauty, elegance, and perfect balance. He created Really Bad Chess to break away from these mundane restrictions and turn chess on its head. The randomness of the pieces adds new challenges to the game, yet the essence of chess remains intact. The power of certain pieces becomes more evident in this unconventional setup, and struggling against a pawn in the back row proves to be a real challenge.
For experienced chess players, Really Bad Chess offers a new type of challenge. Although the rules and moves are the same, it requires players to abandon their familiar openings and typical patterns of play. Novice players, on the other hand, can truly explore the joy and challenge of learning how to checkmate right from the start, without needing to study specific openings.
Really Bad Chess is a game that aims to provide enjoyment for both chess enthusiasts and those who have yet to fully embrace the game. The developer expresses his hope that players will have as much fun with Really Bad Chess as he did creating it.
Overview
Really Bad Chess is a Freeware software in the category Games & Entertainment developed by Zach Gage.
The latest version of Really Bad Chess is 1.4.7, released on 10/12/2023. It was initially added to our database on 10/12/2023.
Really Bad Chess runs on the following operating systems: Android/iOS.
Users of Really Bad Chess gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Pros
- Unique and innovative gameplay that offers a fresh take on traditional chess.
- Provides a challenging experience for both casual players and seasoned chess veterans.
- Randomly generated piece distribution creates endless replayability and surprises.
- Customizable difficulty settings offer options for players of all skill levels.
- Sleek and minimalist design enhances the overall gaming experience.
Cons
- May not appeal to purists or traditional chess players due to the unconventional rules and piece distribution.
- The random nature of the game can lead to unbalanced matches or frustrating situations.
- Limited in-depth tutorials or guidance for beginners who may struggle to grasp the strategic nuances.
FAQ
What is Really Bad Chess?
Really Bad Chess is a chess game developed by Zach Gage that introduces a new way to play the traditional game of chess by randomizing the starting position of pieces.
How is Really Bad Chess different from traditional chess?
In Really Bad Chess, the starting position of pieces is randomized, making each game unique and requiring players to adapt to new challenges. This randomness creates a more casual and unpredictable gameplay compared to traditional chess.
Is Really Bad Chess available on mobile?
Yes, Really Bad Chess is available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices.
Can players customize the starting position of pieces in Really Bad Chess?
Yes, players can customize the starting position of pieces in Really Bad Chess by choosing the level of difficulty and adjusting the piece distribution based on their preferences.
Are there different difficulty levels in Really Bad Chess?
Yes, Really Bad Chess offers different difficulty levels ranging from easy to hard, allowing players to challenge themselves based on their skill level.
Does Really Bad Chess support online multiplayer?
Yes, Really Bad Chess offers online multiplayer mode where players can compete against others in real-time matches.
Can players undo moves in Really Bad Chess?
Yes, players have the option to undo their moves in Really Bad Chess, making it easier to correct mistakes or try out different strategies during gameplay.
Are there any in-app purchases in Really Bad Chess?
Really Bad Chess is a premium game with no in-app purchases, providing players with the full experience without any additional costs.
Does Really Bad Chess have an offline mode?
Yes, Really Bad Chess can be played in offline mode, allowing players to enjoy the game even without an internet connection.

Pete Milner
I'm Pete, a software reviewer at UpdateStar with a passion for the ever-evolving world of technology. My background in engineering gives me a unique insight into the intricacies of software, allowing me to provide in-depth, knowledgeable reviews and analyses. Whether it's the newest software releases, tech innovations, or the latest trends, I'm here to break it all down for you. I work from UpdateStar’s Berlin main office.
Latest Reviews by Pete Milner
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