Experimental Chess Variants You Need to Try in 2026
Chess Is Evolving
Game designers are reimagining chess from the ground up — creating variants with dynamic boards, ability systems, and mechanics borrowed from video games.
The Most Innovative Variants of 2026
Knight Chase — The Power-Up Revolution
Knight Chase has redefined what a chess variant can be. Chess knight movement combined with power-ups (Ruler, Compass, Eraser, Teleport, Freeze), a disappearing board, and chaos events (Coffee Spill, Sabotage, Invisible Ink). Six game modes including a 40-level adventure.
Horde Chess — Army of Pawns
One player controls a standard chess army. The other controls 36 pawns. Asymmetric strategy in its purest form.
Racing Kings — Speed Chess, Literally
No checks allowed. Both kings race to rank 8. Pure positional racing.
Monster Chess — One Against Many
The monster player has a king that can make two moves per turn against a full army.
What Makes Experimental Variants Succeed?
- Simple additional rules — Easy to explain, complex to master
- Strategic depth — New mechanics create genuine decision-making
- Replay value
- Accessibility
Where to Find Them
Lichess.org hosts many variants. For Knight Chase, download free on iOS and Android. Browse our chess variant guide or explore chaotic strategy games for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some experimental chess variants?
Knight Chase (power-ups and disappearing board), Horde Chess (36 pawns vs standard army), Racing Kings (first king to rank 8 wins), and various community-built chess games.
Ready to Break the Board?
Knight Chase is free on iOS and Android. Experience the most dynamic chess variant ever made.
Download Knight Chase