Frequently asked questions about the platform
VideoChess 2x2 is an online platform for playing chess and backgammon with built-in video chat. See and hear your opponent in real time — as if you were sitting at the same table.
A unique team mode, "Pair vs Pair" (2v2): two players team up and control one set of pieces together while communicating via video.
You can play for free without registration. Signing up unlocks video chat, stats, and your personal profile.
Visit the site and you'll land on the homepage. Registration is not required for a quick start — you can join as a guest.
Go to the lobby — the main screen with the list of rooms. Choose a mode: Chess 1v1, Pair vs Pair (2v2), or Backgammon.
Click on any available room and take a seat—click on the empty chair on the desired side (white or black). Activate the readiness lever. The game will start when all players are ready.
In 2v2 mode, each team has two players. Teammates sit side by side and take turns — each player makes one move per team turn.
♟ Chess 1v1
Classic one-on-one chess with time control. Standard rules including castling, en passant, and pawn promotion. A draw is declared automatically on threefold repetition or stalemate.
♟♟ Pair vs Pair (2v2)
A unique team mode! Two players control one set of pieces. Teammates alternate moves — the first player makes a move, then the second. Communicate via video and plan your strategy together!
🎲 Backgammon (long)
Long backgammon (classic rules). Roll the dice and bear off your checkers before your opponent does.
Please note that the RTC service provider's servers (video streaming) may be unavailable in your region. If you enable streaming but nothing happens, this is most likely the case. Try contacting technical support.
Video chat is the platform's key feature. It lets you see and hear your opponents (and your teammate in 2v2) during the game.
To turn on your camera and microphone, activate broadcast button in the game room. Your browser will ask for permission to access your camera and mic — you need to allow it.
The icons will appear camera and microphone. You can now turn on your camera and microphone. The browser will ask for permission to access the camera and microphone - you need to grant it.
Each minute of video costs 1 chessie. This applies to all users, including VIP. When your chessies run out, the broadcast will turn off automatically.
Unregistered users (guests) cannot start video on their own. However, a VIP player can sponsor a guest's video session by paying from their own balance.
Press the menu button below the board to open the game menu with available actions.
The chat is to the right of the board (on desktop).
The clock is located in the upper right corner, as well as on the player avatars themselves if a timed game is selected.
To surrender a game, click the corresponding button below the board.
A draw is declared automatically on threefold repetition or stalemate. There is no separate "offer draw" button.
Chessies are the platform's internal currency. 1 chessie = 1 minute of video.
After registering and playing your first game, you receive a welcome bonus of 50 chessies. That's almost an hour of video!
You can top up your balance in your profile through a secure payment system.
Chessies are non-refundable — all digital purchases are final.
A VIP subscription unlocks additional features:
Video session sponsorship— pay for videos for other players from your balance
Kick and manage participants in VIP rooms
VIP rooms are your personal space. You can set a password, kick unwanted players, and invite friends. Your room is visible in the lobby to everyone.
In your profile you can upload an avatar, change your name and password, and view your game history and stats.
You can sign up with email or with your Google account.
If you forgot your password, use the recovery feature on the login page. A reset link will be sent to your email.