Best Games Like Chess – 9 Alternatives For Strategic Players

Chess is a timeless classic game we enjoy playing because of its mind-bending and cunning gameplay features. It’s a game of strategy, skill, and critical thinking, making it a favorite pastime for many. However, if you’re a chess enthusiast looking for new games to try, many similar games offer unique twists and challenges.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best games like chess that you can try. Whether you’re looking for a modern twist on the classic game or a unique challenge altogether, there’s something fit for you. So, get ready to sharpen your mind and test your skills with these exciting games.

Clash Royale

Clash Royale is a tower-rush strategy game that combines tower defense elements with competitive multiplayer mechanics. The game employs a trophy-based ranking system to determine a player’s rank. It has amassed over 100 million downloads and is enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. The game also has an e-Sport world championship and was even part of the 2018 Asian Games as a demonstration event.

It is similar to chess in terms of how you need to learn how to place characters on the board strategically. New players must pay close attention to the tutorial on how to do it to avoid confusion later in the game. Clash Royale has solid upgrades and level-up mechanics. It is an expansive game so it is recommended that you conserve resources. Once you have upgraded your characters, you transition into the main challenge – online PVP. The game is optimized for PC, and you can create or join a clan and engage in real-time duels with other players.
 

Clash Mini

Clash Mini is a strategy game developed and published by Supercell. As a part of the Clash franchise, you can control your favorite characters from Clash of Clans but this time in miniature designs. Although the game looks cute, it offers challenging strategy-based gameplay similar to chess. It allows you to engage in quick battles, upgrade your characters, and collect iconic Clash heroes.

Since its release, Clash Mini has garnered millions of downloads. Players have rated it highly for its fast-paced battles, dynamic movement combinations, and multiple quests to complete. With the PC version now available for free, you can experience the game’s fun and engaging gameplay on a new platform.
 

Hoplite

If you’re in search of a game that tests your tactical skills, then the Hoplite Game is a must-play. This turn-based rogue-lite game features a humble protagonist, Hoplite, who embarks on a journey to find the Golden Fleece. It offers a straightforward yet complicated premise that challenges you to employ your tactics and skills.

In the game, you can use various fighting abilities to eliminate your enemies such as lunging, stabbing, and spear-throwing much like in a classic chess game. The game also features upgradeable skills that correspond to the ruleset of each room. Its enemy mechanics are easily understandable, and you can drop a single hit point. This is whenever you get hit by an opponent or stay adjacent to a footman or bomb. While the game may seem complex at first, you can learn to effectively play the game and undertake levels. It includes the challenging mode, which gets harder as players progress in the levels.
 

Really Bad Chess

Really Bad Chess is a more familiar chess-like game but offers a unique take on the classic board game. It features a refreshing twist on traditional chess rules. This game shakes things up by generating random chess pieces for each game. You may find yourself with four bishops, eight knights, or even three pawns, which adds to the challenge. It requires you to think outside the box. Despite the randomness of the pieces, the game still retains the traditional rules of chess. This makes it easy for you to jump in and start playing.

The game also offers other modes to suit different skill levels. They include the Versus mode and the Freeplay mode. Additionally, Really Bad Chess allows you to customize your boards by allowing you to choose from different alternating color palettes. With its challenging gameplay and exciting features, the game is a must-play for chess enthusiasts and newcomers.
 

Phobies

Phobies is a strategy game that immerses you in a mental battle against your fears. The game takes you into the subconscious realm where you choose your Phobies and attack opponents in a therapy session. You must eliminate all enemy Phobies by applying the best strategy.

The game offers simple yet strategic gameplay, requiring you to execute attacks using specific characters to defeat your opponents. Maps in the game are distinct, with various area themes such as volcanoes and offices. You must be aware of obstacles in each map, as they can hinder progress and cause damage to Phobies. With 120 collectible Phobies and its psychoanalytic graphic elements, you must master your strategic approach to defeat your enemy.
 

Auto Chess War

In this magical-realist strategy game, you must purchase and arrange your own tactical formation to battle. Like chess, each piece has its unique skills, and victory hinges on understanding the proper use of these pieces. The game follows the principle gameplay of auto chess. It also has added modes: the Endless Mode and the first chapter of Adventure which promises a new experience.

Auto Chess War features magical-realist characters and scenes, a unique battle view, and gorgeous effects. The roguelike adventure provides a different experience for you with each new Adventure. On the other hand, Endless Challenge allows you to increase the final wave by 5 with each stage clear.
 

Shogi Free

Shogi Free – Japanese Chess is a beginner-friendly board game that caters to seasoned players. Beginners can learn the basics of the game with the provided rules and practice mode. Also, seasoned players can enjoy the online and stage modes. In the practice mode, players can adjust the difficulty level and handicap settings to improve their skills.

If you want to learn how to play Shogi, the game provides a menu that teaches the game’s rules. The Staging mode presents unique Shogi problems that you must solve to turn the tide in your favor. On the other hand, the Online mode allows seasoned players to compete against each other.
 

Hex Commander: Fantasy Heroes

Hex Commander is a turn-based strategy game that takes place in European Medieval-style settings. As a player, you must build and develop your army to fight against different countries in dangerous battles. The game features various heroes, each with unique abilities and movements that make the battles more realistic.

Hex Commander offers different game modes. They include single-player and PvP modes, where you can join factions with unique strengths and special attacks. The game also features 4 campaigns, each depicting a different race in the game. It also boasts a mission system that allows you to earn in-game currency to upgrade your kingdom’s buildings.
 

Antiyoy Online

Antiyoy Online, developed by Yiotro, is a simple yet addictive strategy game perfect for quick breaks. In the game, you are challenged to earn land and money to defend and expand your territory. It is important to continuously produce money to invest in defense towers, battle opponents, and invest in more powerful units. You need to be strategic in managing your money and units to prevent negative production and starvation of troops.

The game looks simple however it is not an easy task to learn tactical strategies to form your lands and equip them with defensive towers. The game offers 119 levels with varying difficulty and the option to modify the size of the map. Additionally, you can explore exciting maps and play with several players in Multiplayer mode.
 

Enjoy These Best Games Like Chess

If you want to decide what game to play to test your strategic skills, download similar games like chess here in EmulatorPC. Each of the games mentioned above not only teaches you how to win but also discusses some processes of the gameplay. Ultimately, they are all free to download and you can play them anytime on your PC.

For more updates about board games like chess, stay tuned here in EmulatorPC.