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CalvinChess

It's chess, but the rules keep changing! Add new rules, adapt to events, and watch as the board and its pieces change with each move made. No two games are played the same!

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Release
April 15, 2026
108 days ago
Steam Reviews
5 user reviews5 reviews100.0%

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About the Game

What is CalvinChess?

It's chess, but the rules keep changing!

CalvinChess is a chess variant with roguelike elements designed for multiplayer gameplay and chaotic fun in mind. After each turn, a player is presented with a choice among various rules or events to apply to the board, changing how pieces move, where they're placed, or even which spaces exist where!

For example, one rule makes rooks move like bishops. Another makes pawns move like knights. Some rules introduce new moves to pieces to allow for new options, and others alter the direction they move on the board. Since rules apply to both players and expire over the course of the game, being able to adapt to change and strategize around a dynamic playing field is a necessity for victory.

Features

  • Customizable game setup - Games can be customized to add/remove certain rules, change the frequency of when they appear and which player gets to choose, what the initial board looks like, and more! If you really wanted to, you could play normal chess!

  • Cartoony and satisfying visuals - Pieces slide into place, move in sequence, and spontaneously combust upon being taken! Also, they all have googly eyes!

  • Dynamic game information - Hovering over a piece while it's your turn visualizes where it can move, factoring in new rules and whether or not a move would put a king into check. Rules affecting specific pieces will also be highlighted as necessary. No need to do all that mental math in your head!

  • Personalization options - Choose what colors the dark and light pieces are!

  • Local and online multiplayer - Play using one computer passing the mouse back and forth or play over an Internet connection! Either way, you're bound to make (or break) a few friendships!

Have fun!