Frequently Asked Questions
Does Versus Chess require Wi-Fi?
Versus Chess requires an active internet connection. It works over EDGE, 3G or Wi-Fi. You will not be able to launch the game without an internet connection.
Is there single player mode?
No, Versus Chess does not support single player or offline games. All games are played over the internet.
Can I play my friend?
Yes, you just need to know each other’s username. If you both log in at the same time and go to “Find Opponent” from the main menu, you can Challenge each other.
Do you support Correspondence or Turn-based Chess?
No, all games are played in a single session.
How long does each game last?
Each player is given a short amount of time to make all their moves. If your Chess Clock runs out, you will lose the game. Currently each player is given around 7 minutes per game. (So the longest a game can last is about 15 minutes) Additionally there is a per move timer to stop players from simply running out the clock.
Can I adjust the length of a game?
Not right now. If Alice wants a short 10 minute game she wouldn’t match up with Bob, who is looking for a 40 minute game. In the interest of simplicity and getting people matched up with each other, we settled on a single game length. When we get enough people online, we’ll allow people to choose their game length.
What happens if I lose my connection during a game?
If you lose your connection, Versus Chess will automatically reconnect to the server and put you back in your game. However, if you disconnect too many times or for too long, you will be disqualified.
I looked away for a moment and missed the last move, is there some way to repeat it?
Sure, to repeat the last move, swipe your finger across the board from right to left.
How do I find an opponent?
There are two ways to find an opponent. The first is to select Instant Match from the main menu. The server will automatically attempt to match you up with an opponent based on your rating. The second is to select Find Opponent from the main menu. You will be shown a list of possible oponents ordered by their rating. If you have playerd them before, you will also see your record against them (wins - losses - draws). You can then select one to Challenge and be challenged by others.
Are there computer players?
For now, there are computer players. Computer players have BOT at the end of their name. Ideally, there would not be any BOTs. However, the server will create computer players if the number of people looking for a game gets too low. Games against computer players will not affect your Rating.
How do I update Versus Chess?
There are two ways to update the game.
On your iPhone or iPod Touch:
1. Run the App Store application
2. Select the Updates tab on the bottom of the screen
3. Select Versus Chess from the list of applications
On your computer:
1. Run iTunes
2. Select Application from the menu on the left
3. Click “Check for Updates” on the bottom of the screen
4. Download the update for Versus Chess
5. Re-sync your iPhone or iPod Touch
How do the ratings work?
The ratings are based on a modified CXR system. For details, check out:
http://www.cxrchess.com/CXRStatsExplained.php
How can I rotate the board, I want to be on the bottom of the screen?
Physically, turn your phone upside down. After a moment the screen will reorient itself.