Chess.com

Chess.com is the world’s leading online chess platform, serving as a hub for both casual play and professional tournaments. Since its re-founding and subsequent launch in May 2007, it has transformed from a community site for chess enthusiasts into a global digital powerhouse that hosts millions of games daily and provides a suite of educational tools including lessons, tactics training, and live broadcast analysis.

Originally conceived by Erik Allebest and Jay Severson, the platform is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, and maintains a largely distributed remote workforce across the globe. The brand has expanded significantly through strategic acquisitions, most notably the 2022 purchase of the Play Magnus Group, which brought world champion Magnus Carlsen under its umbrella and solidified its position as the dominant force in the digital chess ecosystem.

While the software is developed primarily by a team based in the United States, its global infrastructure ensures accessibility for players worldwide. The brand remains privately held by Chess.com, LLC, continuing to operate as the central authority in online chess entertainment, news, and competitive play into 2026 and beyond.