Esport-like chess game Anichess launches public alpha

Anichess, a chess-based online strategy game developed by Animoca Brands, has launched its public alpha.

In addition to launching the alpha, the developer has also partnered with Web3-based gaming guild platform Yield Guild Games.

The partnership with Yield Guild Games will enable the platform to distribute the game in Southeast Asia. The deal also includes the two parties joining forces to organise a tournament with the finals taking place at the YGG Play Summit in November. In addition to the platform, Anichess has been developed in collaboration with online chess platform Chess.com.

Anichess’ public alpha allows players to participate in player-versus-player (PvP) matches and the ability to unlock new in-game items. Anichess combines chess with spell mechanics, adding a further layer of strategy and creating more of an ‘esport-like’ game.

According to a release, Anichess has recorded ‘over 1m registered wallets’ since January 2024 and has maintained a monthly player base of 30,000. The free-to-play game aims to appeal to gaming and chess fandoms while offering a new way to play.

The game is no stranger to the world of esports. In May 2024, Anichess joined forces with multinational organisation Team Secret. The deal saw Team Secret collaborate with the developer to refine the game’s PvP mode.

Brian Chan, Head of Anichess, spoke on the news: “We’re excited to launch the next phase of Anichess and invite players to the new player-versus-player experience.

“Our partnership with YGG expands our reach to a diverse audience across Southeast Asia, a region that is strategically important due to its vibrant gaming and chess communities. Engaging these audiences will help us realise our vision of delivering an engaging, community-centric, and decentralised experience to a wide global audience.”