Online Vs. Offline Chess Gaming: What Sets the Two Apart?
Back in the day, chess was a board game, plain and simple. It was a chequered board with all its pieces, and players needed to move everything themselves It was part of the fun, and it made the game social.
But these days, along with many other things, chess can be played online, introducing a plethora of new things to consider as well as general differences in the game. We’re going to get into the nitty gritty and look at the main things that set the online and the offline versions apart (other than the obvious, of course).
The Social Aspect
For many people, part of the fun of playing a board game like chess was the social aspect. In fact, you’ll find it to be quite common in many cultures, especially among older men – sitting and having a cup of tea, coffee or a drink while playing a game of chess is the norm.
Playing online, however, takes away that aspect. For many people who aren’t playing just for the social side of things, that’s not a problem, but it certainly is a consideration.
The Touch Move
One thing many people talk about when it comes to online is chess is that you’re able to drag a piece over to a potential position without actually making the move. This allows you to visualise the move and consider all potential outcomes that may be easier for you than just imagining the move in your head.
Now, some people consider this a bad habit as it’s often considered poor etiquette in real life chess. But it all depends on the people!
You Can Play Unlimited Opponents
When you play online, there are no geographical borders. Just like you can enjoy the pokies Australia offers from across the globe, you’re not only limited to only the people around you. Rather, you can play against anybody in the world which can be a great way to challenge yourself and play against people of different skill levels and with different tactics.
Multiple Games May Be Played Concurrently
If your aim is to practice and to get good at the game of chess, then playing online is probably the best way to do that. Unlike offline chess, you are able to play several games at the same time while you’re on the internet, going up against multiple opponents simultaneously.
You Don’t Have to Chat – Or You Can!
Playing chess online gives you the option of either enabling or disabling the chat function depending on your preferences. If you’re looking for some banter or something social, you can chat. Or, if you’re trying to focus on your game and play as well as possible – or even if you’re preparing for a tournament – you can also disable the chat function so you can put all your energy into focusing on the game at hand.
Either way, you can decide how you feel in the moment.