What is Lichess?
Lichess is a free and open-source chess server founded in 2010 by French programmer Thibault Duplessis and run today as a non-profit. Its promise is simple: everything is free for everyone, with no ads and no paid tiers. The site says most free websites make money by selling ads or user data, and that Lichess does neither and never will. It is funded by donations and built with lots of volunteer help.
It is one of the most popular chess sites in the world, with users playing more than five million games a day according to its about page. Interest jumped during the boom that followed The Queen's Gambit. You can jump into a game without an account, challenge a friend with a link, play the computer, and use the puzzles, analysis board, studies and broadcasts that other sites often charge for.
What You Can Do
- Play quick games against strangers at any time control
- Challenge a friend with a link, no account needed
- Play against the computer at different strengths
- Solve thousands of puzzles and use the analysis board
- Build studies and watch live tournament broadcasts
How to Play Lichess
- Go to lichess.org.
- Pick a time control under Quick Pairing to play a stranger.
- Or choose Play with a friend and send them the link.
- Create a free account later if you want a rating and history.
Is Lichess Free?
Lichess is 100 percent free with no ads and no paid features. You can optionally become a patron to donate toward server costs.
Who Will Enjoy It?
- Chess players of every level
- Beginners who want to learn without pressure
- Friends who want a quick game over a link
- Coaches and clubs who need free study tools
Websites Like Lichess
- Codenames Online: Another free browser game you can play with friends over a link.
- Retro Games: For more classic games you can play in the browser.
- The Evolution of Trust: For anyone who enjoys strategy and game theory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lichess really free?
Yes. Every feature is free with no ads. It is a non-profit funded by donations.
Do I need an account to play on Lichess?
No. You can play a quick game or a friend without an account. An account adds a rating and game history.
Who runs Lichess?
It was founded by Thibault Duplessis in 2010 and is run as a non-profit with help from volunteers.