Really Bad Chess

Really Bad Chess

Chess minus memorization

1.6K ratings
604 reviews
Free
In-App PurchasesWith Ads

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • October 13, 2016
  • March 21, 2026

Features

Really Bad Chess video #1 for iPhone
Really Bad Chess screenshot #2 for iPhone
Really Bad Chess screenshot #3 for iPhone
Really Bad Chess screenshot #4 for iPhone
Really Bad Chess screenshot #5 for iPhone
Really Bad Chess screenshot #6 for iPhone
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About

This app reimagines chess with completely randomized pieces, offering a fresh strategic challenge. It's perfect for both seasoned players seeking a new puzzle and beginners looking to learn the fundamentals in a fun, accessible way.

Randomized chess piece sets
AI opponent challenges
Ranked, Daily, and Weekly modes
Freeplay practice mode
Local multiplayer (with IAP)
Alternate color palettes (with IAP)
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What users say

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What's New in Really Bad Chess

1.6.1

March 21, 2026

Two bug fixes to the new update: - Game should now display properly on iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. - Splash screen graphic restored.

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In-App Purchases

$0.99

100 Undos

100 Undos, ready for your immediate use!

User reviews

Addictive

Lots of fun

Im on iphone x

Game doesnt open

Has ads

Has full screen interstitial ads.

zack!

zack make my game actually load

Best $1 I’ve ever spent in my life

Incredibly fun. I’ve been playing for a full decade now. And just in the past few years he dropped an amazing new game mode out of nowhere for free!

Developer apps

User experience

🐞

Reported Bugs

3 issues

Pieces unable to move as per chess rules

Bug

Game freezes and crashes

Bug

Incorrect checkmate detection

Bug

Requested Features

5 requests

Add draw conditions and stalemate rules

Feature

Implement online/multiplayer mode

Feature

Provide more difficulty settings

Feature

Allow custom piece arrangements

Feature

Sync progress across devices

Feature

FAQ

What is Really Bad Chess?

Really Bad Chess is a unique take on the classic game of chess where each game features a completely random assortment of pieces. This twist removes the need for memorization and opens up a new world of strategic possibilities for players of all levels.

What are the key features of Really Bad Chess?

The app offers randomized chess piece sets for a fresh challenge, AI opponents in various modes like Ranked, Daily, and Weekly Challenges, and a Freeplay mode for practice. A single in-app purchase unlocks local Versus Mode, removes ads, displays captured pieces, and adds alternate color palettes.

How much does Really Bad Chess cost?

The core game is free to play, allowing you to compete against an AI in different challenge modes and practice in Freeplay. To unlock local Versus Mode, remove ads, and access additional cosmetic features, a single in-app purchase is available.

Who is this app for?

This app is designed for anyone interested in strategy games. Chess pros will find a new type of challenge that forces them to abandon traditional openings, while novice players can discover the joy of checkmating without the initial burden of memorizing complex strategies.

Can I play with friends?

Yes, you can play with friends locally by unlocking the Versus Mode through a single in-app purchase. This feature allows you to challenge friends on the same device, offering a fun head-to-head experience with the randomized piece sets.