Chess is one of the most popular games in the world. And for good reason - it’s so much fun! If you think about the games that you enjoy, they probably strike a mix between easy to learn, yet challenging enough to keep you wanting more. Chess is a perfect mix of just that.
Here’s a look at 7 reasons who chess is so fun to play. We would love to know what reasons you would add to the list.
Chess is easy to learn, but hard to master
Chess is easy enough to learn that kids as young as 4 or 5 can pick up the basics of the game. But the really fun part is that the more you learn about the game, and the deeper you go into understanding strategies, the more complex and challenging it becomes. Mastering the game takes years (maybe even a lifetime) of practice. This mix allows the game to be fun for kids who only know the basics, and continues to be fun for experienced players since you can continually learn new moves and tactics.
It’s not a game of luck
Another fun aspect of chess is that it isn’t a game of luck. Even though there may be some luck/advantage involved in being white or black, or the player who gets the first move – your skills, and understanding of tactics and strategies decide how the game plays out. And the winner of the game is completely decided by how well you play.
Every game is different
Did you know that there are more possible variations of chess games than there are atoms in the observable universe? A big reason why the game of chess is so fun is because no two matches are ever the same. And even though patterns and plays are re-used, the game as a whole will not likely ever be repeated.
Anyone can play – and you can play with anyone
There are no age, gender, cultural, or language barriers in the game of chess – meaning you can play the game with anyone! During chess classes, children get a chance to socialize with others, and have fun in the process of learning how to play. And since the game can be played online, you can easily reach players from around the world – how fun is that?
It provides intellectual stimulation
Chess will no doubt give your brain a workout. When you play, both the left and right hemispheres of the brain are activated. Playing chess also improves neural communications within the brain, leading to improved speed and function. On top of all that, playing chess has been shown in studies to significantly improve IQ as well.
It puts you in a whole new world
Chess requires a lot of focus and concentration – to the point where you may end up so focused on the game that the rest of the world around you temporarily fades away. For many players, chess is a way to forget about the stresses of the world, and focus on the game at hand.
Winning is fun
While winning isn’t everything, the feeling you get when you win a game of chess is super exciting, and it sure is fun to be the one to shout “checkmate!” at the end.