GoChess revolutionizes the chess experience by connecting players of all skill levels online, enabling them to play on a physical chessboard with robotically moving pieces. It bridges the gap between online and offline gameplay, making it easier to find opponents and enjoy the tactile satisfaction of playing with real chess pieces. [1]

Figure 1. GoChess

Figure 1 shows GoChess, created by electronic gaming company Particula, is currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign. Particula, known for their innovative products, previously introduced the GoCube, a high-tech version of the Rubik's Cube. With GoChess, they aim to merge online chess with a physical chessboard, providing players with a unique and interactive chess experience. [1]

GoChess is designed to resemble a conventional chess set when not in use. However, beneath its translucent surface lies a fascinating array of small wheeled robots. These robots are connected to a companion app through Bluetooth technology. When a game is initiated, the robots come to life, replicating the moves of online opponents on the physical chessboard in real-time. This integration of robotics and app connectivity enhances the traditional chess experience, providing a blend of digital and physical gameplay. [1]

In the GoChess system, the robotic bots underneath the chessboard utilize magnetic forces to move the chess pieces back and forth across the board. These bots are programmed to receive and interpret real-time moves made by opponents on popular online chess platforms like Lichess or Chess.com. As your opponent makes a move online, the corresponding move is transmitted to the GoChess board, and the robotic bots accurately replicate the movement of the pieces on the physical board. This synchronized interaction between the online chess platform and the robotic chessboard allows players to experience the thrill of playing against remote opponents while enjoying the tactile satisfaction of physically moving the chess pieces. [1]

Those opponents can play via their computer keyboard and an onscreen chessboard – they don't need to also be utilizing a GoChess board. GoChess users moves their pieces by hand, although they can additionally get the board to do so for them via voice commands. When the pieces are moved by hand, the magnet in each piece is detected by sensors in the board, allowing the system to know which piece was moved to which square. [1]

GoChess offers users the ability to play against human opponents or an online AI at various difficulty levels. To enhance the learning experience, the chessboard is equipped with color-coded LEDs beneath each square. These LEDs provide coaching by lighting up to suggest possible, good, and suboptimal next moves. This feature assists players in improving their gameplay and decision-making. [1]

The GoChess app offers various features for solo play, including skill-building chess puzzles and the ability to watch famous historical chess matches. The app also serves as a game tracker, keeping a record of users' games, tracking progress, and providing suggestions for improvement. [1]

For convenient on-the-go chess play, the sensor- and LED-equipped surface of the board can be detached and used independently without the robotic components. This standalone setup, known as GoChess Lite, is a more affordable option for those on a budget. Additionally, the board can function as a traditional chessboard, allowing two players to manually move their pieces in face-to-face games. This versatility makes GoChess suitable for different preferences and situations. [1]

Kickstarter pledges for the full GoChess system begin at $259, while the Lite version is priced at $219. The planned retail prices for the full system and the Lite version are $379 and $319, respectively. If the Kickstarter campaign is successful, backers can expect their boards to be shipped around May next year. [1]

Sources: Kickstarter, GoChess

References:

1. https://newatlas.com/games/gochess-robotic-chessboard/

Cite this article:

Hana M (2023), The Chess Revolution: GoChess and the Fusion of Online and Offline Gameplay, AnaTechmaz, pp.255