Hong Kong-based web3 conglomerate Animoca Brands has launched the inaugural phase of Anichess – an innovative decentralized chess game fused with fantasy elements and blockchain capabilities. Developed in collaboration with chess platform Chess.com and world champion Magnus Carlsen, Anichess seeks to pioneer a new frontier for strategy gaming.
Keypoints
- Animoca Brands has launched the first phase of Anichess, a decentralized chess game developed in partnership with Chess.com and Magnus Carlsen.
- The web3 game blends elements of classic chess with innovative features like spellcasting, fantasy storylines, and blockchain integration.
- Phase 1 allows free solo play with puzzles and AI; Phase 2 later this quarter will add competitive PvP modes.
- Anichess aims to revolutionize chess by making it more engaging and accessible, particularly for younger demographics.
- The project combines expertise in chess, gaming, and blockchain technology to offer an unparalleled web3 gaming experience.
Blending themes of magic and adventure with classic chess gameplay, Anichess offers a refreshed take on the ancient pastime. The first release centers on player-versus-environment modes that let users solve chess puzzles enhanced with special spells.
By overcoming daily challenges, players can collect fantasy-styled assets called Orbs of Power. These orbs provide in-game benefits and unlock additional puzzle content to continue the journey.
We’re pleased to announce the first phase launch of @AnichessGame, a free-to-play chess strategy video game developed in partnership with @chesscom and five-time World Chess Champion @MagnusCarlsen.♟️https://t.co/YcBpLEOCi6 pic.twitter.com/psCUJPo0kq
— Animoca Brands (@animocabrands) January 16, 2024
Animoca plans to introduce player-versus-player functionality later in Q1 2023 as part of Phase 2. This update will enable head-to-head matches ranging from casual games to intensely competitive ranked modes. Players can expect continue adventuring solo or test their skills against others in the Anichess community.
Revolutionizing Chess with Web3 Innovation
While preserving chess’s essence, Anichess incorporates innovative elements like magic spells and blockchain tools. This fusion aims to attract new demographics beyond current chess participants through an exciting fantasy setting.
Specifically, the game leverages web3 technology to bring verifiable ownership of in-game assets. Players truly own their hard-earned rewards like customization items and rare collectibles.
The project combines Animoca’s gaming expertise with chess credentials of partners like Chess.com and legendary grandmaster Magnus Carlsen. With chess authorities ensuring accuracy and hardcore fans providing a thriving community, Anichess promises to offer an unparalleled decentralized gaming experience around an age-old classic.
Charting the Future of Strategic Competition
As pioneers in digital entertainment and blockchain, the Animoca team believes Anichess can revolutionize strategy-based competition for the web3 era. While enhancing engagement for existing chess enthusiasts, the game opens the game to new demographics through innovation.
Other traditional mind sports may similarly benefit from tomorrow’s technology. For example, competitive scattergolf platform ProGo looks to reimagine mini-golf with NFTs and virtual worlds. As these projects demonstrate, blending proven gameplay with blockchain’s advantages enables new possibilities.
For Anichess, the roadmap is just getting started. With the initial single-player adventure launched, introducing multiplayer functionality will exponentially increase possibilities. Here players can truly test their skills in magical chess showdowns spanning casual matches to intense eSports tournaments.
By merging fantasy excitement with chess’s timeless depth, Animoca’s latest venture empowers a new generation to fall in love with the classic game. Thanks to web3 innovation, Anichess makes mastering chess engaging and rewarding for players of all backgrounds.
