What is Chess.com?
Chess.com is a leading international chess community that has been around since 2007. It boasts a monthly visitor count of 280 million and an annual revenue ranging from 50 to 100 million USD. The platform is not just a place for players to compete against each other but also a hub for learning, discussing, and exploring the world of chess.
History and Founding
Chess.com was founded by Erik Allebest, who was admitted to Stanford Business School and became passionate about chess. He noticed two things: the need for a community where people could learn, discuss, and play chess, and the potential of the internet to connect chess enthusiasts from all over the world. Initially, Chess.com was an online community where users could post links and watch video tutorials on how to play certain openings. However, the platform quickly evolved to become much more than that.
Key Features
One of the most popular features on Chess.com is Live Chess, which allows players to compete against each other in real-time. This feature was introduced just six months after the platform’s initial testing phase. Chess.com also offers a wide range of video tutorials and courses, including software that makes it easy to teach chess openings. One of the pioneers in this area is Jerry, a grandmaster chess player who has been creating chess videos on YouTube since 2007, covering popular openings, famous games by Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen, and overall chess theory.
Community and Events
Chess.com is not just a platform for playing chess; it’s also a community. The platform hosts various online tournaments and events, including the popular 10 Bullet and King of the Hill tournaments. These events attract players from all over the world and offer a chance to compete for prizes and recognition. Chess.com also celebrates special occasions, such as Women’s History Month, with special events and activities that highlight the achievements of female chess players.
Technology and Innovation
Chess.com has also been at the forefront of technology and innovation in the chess world. For example, the platform introduced a feature called “Mittens,” a set of five adorable robot cats that players could play against. This feature became incredibly popular, with an average of 27.5 million games played daily. However, it also put a strain on the platform’s servers, leading to some technical issues.
Impact and Reach
Chess.com has had a significant impact on the chess world. It has helped to connect chess players from all over the globe, making it easier for them to learn, compete, and share their passion for the game. The platform has also played a crucial role in promoting chess as a sport and an art form, attracting new players and enthusiasts every day.
Conclusion
Chess.com is more than just a chess platform; it’s a community, a learning resource, and a hub for innovation. With its vast user base, rich features, and commitment to promoting chess worldwide, Chess.com has become an indispensable part of the chess world.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Live Chess | Real-time chess games between players from all over the world. |
| Video Tutorials | Extensive collection of video tutorials on chess openings, strategies, and tactics. |
| Online Tournaments | Regular online tournaments and events for players of all skill levels. |
| Community | A vibrant community of chess players from all over the globe. |
