Top 4 Chess & Checkers Games on Windows PC in 2025

Chess and checkers games deliver classic strategy straight to your screen, pitting your mind against cunning AI or real opponents in timeless battles.

In 2025, PC’s lineup for Windows 11/10 players shines with top picks that blend tradition with modern polish, perfect for quick matches or deep sessions.

In this post, we’re spotlighting the best chess and checkers games on PC for 2025.

These four standouts nail the essentials, from sharp gameplay to sleek design, keeping the classics alive.

Drop your favorite in the comments or call out one we skipped!

What Makes a Great Chess or Checkers Game?

A stellar chess or checkers game hooks you with tight rules, smooth controls, and a balance of challenge and fun, whether solo or multiplayer. On Windows, that means crisp visuals, reliable AI, and plenty options.

NOTE: We also included online versions of both checkers and chess for those of you who prefer to play the games on your browsers.

Top 4 Chess & Checkers Games on Windows PC in 2025

1. Chess Ultra

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Ripstone
• 🎮 Genre: Chess Sim
• 📅 Release Date: June 2017
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Play chess in stunning 4K with grandmaster-approved AI, online matches, or VR if you’re feeling fancy. The gorgeous boards and deep options keep it a fan favorite, blending beauty with brainy fun.
  • 10 AI levels
  • Twitch streaming built-in
  • Multiplayer worldwide

👉 Download Here: Steam

2. Decent Checkers

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Tower Games
• 🎮 Genre: Checkers Sim
• 📅 Release Date: February 2023
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Tackle checkers with four rulesets like International and English, facing AI or online foes in a clean, modern setup. The 40 puzzles and active PvP scene make it a sharp, engaging pick for enthusiasts.
  • 4 rulesets supported
  • Online multiplayer
  • 40 brainy puzzles

👉 Download Here: Steam

3. Battle vs Chess

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Targem Games / TopWare Interactive
• 🎮 Genre: Chess Sim
• 📅 Release Date: May 2011
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Chess gets a flashy twist with animated battles when pieces clash, backed by solid AI and online play. The visuals pop and the tutorials help newbies, keeping it a trusted staple with flair.
  • 10 AI difficulties
  • Fantasy animations
  • Multiplayer mode

👉 Download Here: Steam

4. Competitive Checkers

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Bighouse Games
• 🎮 Genre: Checkers Sim
• 📅 Release Date: August 2023
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Square off in real-time checkers matches online, with chat to taunt or cheer your rivals in a sleek package. Its Early Access polish and growing community make it a thrilling, modern contender.
  • Live PvP action
  • In-game chat
  • Custom board themes

👉 Download Here: Steam

Online Chess & Checkers

Prefer playing in your browser without a download? These online picks let you jump into chess and checkers action instantly, no install needed.

Chess – Lichess.org

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Thibault Duplessis (Open Source)
• 🎮 Genre: Chess Sim
• 📅 Release Date: June 2010
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Face players worldwide or test Stockfish AI in this free, open-source chess hub, loaded with puzzles and analysis tools. The no-account option and ad-free vibe make it a clean, fast way to play or sharpen your skills.
  • Unlimited online matches
  • 8 skill levels
  • Variant modes like Chess960

👉 Play Here: Lichess.org

Checkers – Checkers.online

• 🛠️ Developer/Publisher: Checkers Online Team
• 🎮 Genre: Checkers Sim
• 📅 Release Date: January 2020
• 🔥 Why We Like It: Jump into quick checkers games against real opponents or AI, with rules like American or International to mix it up. The simple interface and guest play option keep it hassle-free and fun for all levels.
  • Global matchmaking
  • Custom rulesets
  • No signup needed

👉 Play Here: Checkers.online

Got a chess or checkers game you love? Tell us below or check out more PC gems: best puzzle & trivia games for PC, top card & board games for PC, best casino games for PC