Really Bad Chess is just like chess, but with totally random pieces. Try 8 Knights, 4 Bishops, and 3 pawns — why not? Whether you play chess daily, or quit just after learning the rules, this small twist will open the door to an entire new world of chess. Compete vs. an AI in Ranked, Daily, or Weekly Challenges. Improve your skills using the includ
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App Store edition · Researched Nov 9, 2026 · Guide updated Nov 9, 2026.
Really Bad Chess removes the traditional requirements of perfect balance and elegance found in standard chess. Instead, the game features totally random pieces for each player, forcing you to abandon normal patterns and standard opening strategies during your matches.
Based on source 1.
You can improve your skills by utilizing the included Freeplay mode. Additionally, you can warm up every single day by attempting the new daily chess puzzle, which is specifically titled Knight Hike, to sharpen your tactical thinking.
Based on source 1.
While the pieces and moves remain identical to traditional chess, pros must discard their memorized openings and established patterns. You will face a new type of challenge where even a simple pawn can become incredibly powerful in the back row.
Based on source 1.
Players can test their skills against an AI opponent in three distinct competitive modes: Ranked, Daily, or Weekly Challenges. These modes provide structured environments to apply your strategies against randomized piece configurations rather than standard setups.
Based on source 1.
Yes, the game includes a local versus mode. This allows you to compete directly against your friends on a single device, providing a social way to experience the randomized piece mechanics together in real-time matches.
Based on source 1.
For novices, the game removes the need to study complex openings immediately. Instead, you can focus on the core joy and challenge of learning how to checkmate, making the game much more accessible for those just starting out.
Based on source 1.
While the moves remain identical to traditional chess, the randomized starting positions mean you might face a pawn in the back row. This placement makes the piece surprisingly powerful and creates a unique tactical struggle you have not experienced before.
Based on source 1.
Despite the random pieces, the game remains fundamentally similar to traditional chess. The moves for each piece type are identical, meaning your existing knowledge of how pieces function still applies even when the starting board layout is completely chaotic.
Based on source 1.
The primary goal for new players is to discover the mechanics of checkmate. By removing the pressure of memorizing standard opening strategies, the game allows you to learn the essential win conditions through direct, hands-on gameplay experience.
Based on source 1.
You should expect completely random piece distributions at the start of matches. For example, you might find yourself playing with eight Knights, four Bishops, and only three pawns, which forces you to adapt your strategy to the specific pieces provided.
Based on source 1.
AI-assisted research with automated evidence and consistency checks. Good Game Daily organizes publisher information into practical answers. Guidance is an editorial interpretation of those sources. These notes are based on source research rather than a firsthand playtest; editions and later updates may differ.
Based on listed game features. This is not a firsthand review. Check the publisher’s listing ↗
fixes for inappropriate movement in the mini-boards
Release notes supplied by the developer through the App Store.
Developer description, as provided in the original store listing.
Really Bad Chess is just like chess, but with totally random pieces. Try 8 Knights, 4 Bishops, and 3 pawns — why not?
Whether you play chess daily, or quit just after learning the rules, this small twist will open the door to an entire new world of chess.
Compete vs. an AI in Ranked, Daily, or Weekly Challenges. Improve your skills using the included Freeplay mode. Compete against your friends locally in versus mode!
Warm up every day with our new daily chess puzzle — Knight Hike!
------A WORD FROM THE DEVELOPER
Chess is one of those games I always wished I enjoyed, but its commitment to beauty, elegance, and perfect balance always turned me away. Really Bad Chess removes these boring restrictions and flips chess on its head.
As much as random pieces change the game in some ways, I was really surprised to notice how much the game remains the same, and how powerful some pieces are — you've never truly struggled against a pawn until you've struggled against a pawn in the back row.
For chess pros, Really Bad Chess will give you a new type of challenge — the pieces & the moves are the same, but you'll have to throw out your openings and your understanding of normal patterns of play.
For novice chess players (like most of us), Really Bad Chess greatly opens up the game. Instead of starting by studying openings, in your first games you'll get to discover the joy (and challenge!) of learning how to checkmate.
-zach
Apple App Store lookup ↗ · Store ratings, prices, and availability can change. Check the App Store for your region.
Really Bad Chess+ is listed on the JP App Store. Availability varies by region and compatible device.
The recorded download price is Price TBA. Prices may vary by region and change over time. Source checked Nov 9, 2026.
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