Magnus Carlsen, the reigning World Chess Champion, has transformed the way we perceive and play chess in the digital age. Leveraging technology, a plethora of chess apps designed for the iPhone offer features to improve your game, from beginner to grandmaster levels. This article dives into finding the best iPhone chess app to help you emulate Carlsen’s mastery on your mobile device.
Best Chess App for iPhone
1. Chess – Play & Learn
Pros:
- Large user base for online play
- Offers in-app purchases for advanced features
- Supports multiple languages
Cons:
- Free version has limited features
- May require in-app purchases for full experience
App Store Reviews and Ratings: 4.8 stars with 412.2K ratings
Summary:
Chess – Play & Learn offers a comprehensive chess experience with a large online community. The app supports multiple languages and offers in-app purchases for those looking to enhance their experience. Its high rating indicates user satisfaction.
Download Link: Chess – Play & Learn
2. Real Chess 3D
Pros:
- Immersive 3D graphics
- Offers a unique virtual experience
- Suitable for all age groups
Cons:
- Limited to 3D gameplay
- May not be ideal for traditionalists
App Store Reviews and Ratings: Not available
Summary:
Real Chess 3D offers an immersive experience with its 3D graphics. The app is suitable for all age groups and provides a unique twist to traditional chess. However, it may not be ideal for those who prefer a more classical approach.
Download Link: Real Chess 3D
3. Chess – Offline Board Game
Pros:
- Offline gameplay available
- Multiple difficulty levels
- Simple and straightforward interface
Cons:
- Limited to offline play
- May lack advanced features
App Store Reviews and Ratings: Not available
Summary:
Chess – Offline Board Game is perfect for those who prefer to play without an internet connection. The app offers multiple difficulty levels and a straightforward interface. However, it may lack some of the advanced features found in other apps.
Download Link: Chess – Offline Board Game
4. Chess Universe
Pros:
- Offers both online and offline play
- Includes puzzles and a Chess Academy
- Recommended by top chess players
Cons:
- Not available on the App Store
- Limited to Google Play Store
App Store Reviews and Ratings: 4.4 stars with 62K ratings (Google Play Store)
Summary:
Chess Universe is a versatile app that offers both online and offline play. It includes puzzles and a Chess Academy for learning. However, the app is not available on the App Store and is limited to the Google Play Store.
Download Link: Chess Universe
5. Chess for Kids – Play & Learn
Pros:
- Designed for kids and beginners
- Ad-free and safe for kids
- Offers in-app purchases for advanced features
Cons:
- May be too basic for advanced players
- Limited to a younger audience
App Store Reviews and Ratings: 4.7 stars with 51.8K ratings
Summary:
Chess for Kids – Play & Learn is an ideal app for young learners and beginners. The app is ad-free and offers a safe environment for kids to learn chess. However, it may be too basic for more advanced players.
Download Link: Chess for Kids – Play & Learn
6. SocialChess – Online Chess
Pros:
- Polished and full-featured interface
- Supports fast chess with a clock
- Offers in-app purchases for advanced features
Cons:
- Limited to online play
- May require in-app purchases for full experience
App Store Reviews and Ratings: 4.7 stars with 6.1K ratings
Summary:
SocialChess – Online Chess offers a polished and full-featured experience for those looking to play online. The app supports fast chess with a clock and offers in-app purchases for those looking for more. Its high rating indicates user satisfaction.
Download Link: SocialChess – Online Chess
7. Chess Adventures for Kids
Pros:
- Designed for kids with fun fantasy bosses
- Offers quests to learn chess
- Safe and educational environment
Cons:
- Limited to a younger audience
- May lack advanced features
App Store Reviews and Ratings: 4.5 stars with 2.5K ratings
Summary:
Chess Adventures for Kids offers a fun and educational environment for young learners. The app includes quests and fantasy bosses to make learning chess enjoyable. However, it may lack some of the advanced features found in other apps.
Download Link: Chess Adventures for Kids
8. Chess – Clash of Kings
Pros:
- Free to play with in-app purchases.
- Offers online play with people around the world.
- Focuses on developing logical thinking.
Cons:
- Limited information on tutorials or training modules.
- May contain ads or in-app purchases that could be distracting.
App Store Info:
- Rating: 4.7
- Reviews: 16.5K
Summary: Chess – Clash of Kings is a highly rated app that offers online play and aims to develop logical thinking. It is free to play but offers in-app purchases. The app is popular among users with a 4.7 rating based on 16.5K reviews.
Download Link: Chess – Clash of Kings
9. Magnus Trainer – Train Chess
Pros:
- Premium lessons based on games by Magnus Carlsen.
- Created by a team of experienced Grand Masters.
- Suitable for players of all levels.
Cons:
- Limited information on pricing or in-app purchases.
- May require a subscription for premium content.
App Store Info:
- Rating: Information not available
- Reviews: Information not available
Summary: Magnus Trainer offers premium lessons and is suitable for chess players of all levels. The app is created by Magnus Carlsen and a team of Grand Masters, making it a reliable source for learning. Pricing and subscription details are not readily available.
Download Link: Magnus Trainer – Train Chess
10. Square Off – Chess App
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals.
- Offers AI and bots up to ELO 3200+.
- Provides access to the best LiChess bots.
Cons:
- Limited information on user interface and design.
- May require in-app purchases for full features.
App Store Info:
- Rating: Information not available
- Reviews: Information not available
Summary: Square Off – Chess App is versatile, catering to players of all skill levels. It offers challenging AI and bots, and even provides access to LiChess bots. However, the user interface and design details are not readily available.
Download Link: Square Off – Chess App