How to Play Anichess: Beginner Tips and Guide
4 - 5 minutes
Anichess combines the timeless strategy of chess with the excitement of magical abilities, bringing a fresh twist to this classic game. In this guide, we'll cover essential rules, strategies, and tips to help you master Anichess and make the most of its unique features.
Anichess Game Rules#Copy URL to this article section
Like classic chess, Anichess includes standard piece movements, castling, en passant, and pawn promotion. However, a major twist is introduced: players select three spells at the start of each game. These spells change the dynamics of the game, allowing for unexpected and creative maneuvers.
For instance, the Queen Time spell lets a chosen piece move like a queen when activated, offering powerful strategic advantages. Unlike traditional chess, you must anticipate not only your opponent’s moves but also their potential spell casts, adding a layer of complexity to every decision.
Using Spells in Anichess#Copy URL to this article section
Unleash powerful spells and change the course of the game with strategic magic.
Each turn you don’t cast a spell, you gain 1 mana point, up to a maximum of 8. Each spell has a specific mana cost and limited uses per game, so you’ll need to think carefully about when and how to deploy them.
Spell usage becomes an essential part of strategy, especially since your opponent can monitor your mana and anticipate when spells may be available. This means timing and resource management are key to outsmarting your opponent.
Winning in Anichess#Copy URL to this article section
In Anichess, you win by Kingslay—capturing your opponent’s king outright. Unlike in traditional chess, there’s no concept of check or checkmate, making spells the primary tool for defense and attack.
Masterful moves and spellcasting secured the win
Other game-ending conditions include:
Draw: If the same board position repeats three times or if both players make 50 consecutive moves without a pawn move or capture.
Agreement: Players can mutually agree to a draw, or a player can resign at any time.v
You need to consider also that stalemates do not exist in the game, as moving into check isn’t a factor. Every move has a sense of finality, emphasizing offensive strategy.
Core Strategies for Anichess#Copy URL to this article section
Mastering the game requires balancing traditional chess tactics with the game’s unique spell mechanics. Here are a few tips to help improve your gameplay:
Unlock and Master Spells#Copy URL to this article section
To make the most of spells, unlock and familiarize yourself with each one. Some spells must be unlocked by winning matches, so playing regularly is beneficial. Understanding each spell’s strengths and weaknesses will help you devise counter-strategies and make strategic choices in each game.
Balance Mana Usage #Copy URL to this article section
With limited spell uses and mana, it’s crucial to manage your resources wisely. Maximize the effectiveness of each spell cast by timing it carefully and considering how your mana level compares to your opponent’s.
Remember that your opponent can see your available mana, so they’ll be prepared if you have enough for a spell. Use this transparency to your advantage by balancing when to cast a spell and when to save mana for later in the game.
Carefully choose your spells to gain the upper hand
Learn and Adapt #Copy URL to this article section
Making mistakes is part of the learning process. Each game presents new challenges, especially with the added layer of spells, so don’t be discouraged by early losses. Instead, focus on understanding how spells interact with standard chess strategies, and learn from each move. Over time, you'll naturally improve as you adapt to both classic chess tactics and the unique mechanics of Anichess.
Final Tips for Anichess Success#Copy URL to this article section
Adapt to Each Opponent: This game isn’t just about memorizing moves; it’s about adaptability. Study your opponent’s spells and adapt your strategy in real time.
Practice with Different Spell Combinations: The spells you choose define your strategy, so experiment with different combinations to see what fits your playstyle best.
Review Games to Improve: After each game, review your moves and spell usage. Analyzing past games can reveal patterns and help you refine your strategy over time.
With practice and a well-rounded understanding of both chess fundamentals and spell mechanics, you’ll be on your way to mastering Anichess and climbing the ranks.