2025’s Best Chess iOS Games: Top 5 Reviewed
Looking for the best chess iOS experience? Check out our top board game picks that blend strategy with fun!
Finding the Best Chess iOS Inspired Board Games: Welcome to our list of the best chess iOS inspired board games! We know the thrill of a good chess match, and that’s why we’ve handpicked games that bring a fresh twist to the classic. When choosing these games, we looked for those offering strategic depth, easy-to-learn rules, and plenty of fun. Whether you’re a seasoned chess pro or a newcomer seeking a challenge, these board games promise to deliver. Get ready to strategize, outsmart, and enjoy with our top selections! Let’s jump into our list of the best chess iOS adaptations.
On this list:
5 Onitama
If you like chess, you’ll love Onitama. It’s quick but deep, just like my love for pizza rolls. It has a 5×5 grid, perfect for people who get dizzy with too much space. The movement is similar to chess, but with a twist! You get movement cards, making it unpredictable and fun. It’s like a party where every guest is a mystery, but with less cleanup. Perfect for those who want a quick strategy fix.
4 Hive
Hive is like chess but more bug-friendly. It’s portable, no board needed. You got your bugs crawling all over the place, trying to surround the queen bee. This one’s for folks who like to think outside the box and get their hands on some hex-shaped pieces. If you love the tactical feel of chess but want something new, Hive’s a great pick. Plus, no setup time! More time for snacks.
3 The Duke
In The Duke, you play with wooden tiles on a 6×6 board. Each tile moves differently, and every time you move a tile, it gets flipped, revealing a new movement pattern. It’s like your friend’s Netflix account, always something new to explore. This game invites you to plan ahead while dealing with changing circumstances. It’s perfect for those who love chess but crave a bit of unpredictability.
2 Santorini
Santorini isn’t just a pretty face. With its 3D board, it makes you feel like an architect in the sunniest of places. The goal is to reach the top of a building using your workers. But beware, your friend might be a real party pooper and block your path. It’s chess with a twist and literally adds a new layer to the classic strategy game. Good for those who want a bit more height in their life.
1 Arimaa
Arimaa is the brainchild of a computer engineer, designed to be tough for AI but intuitive for humans. It’s like the anti-chess, making it a unique challenge. The board setup is similar to chess but uses animal pieces (think elephants and rabbits). Your goal is to get one of your rabbits to the opponent’s home row. Arimaa offers endless possibilities, more than chess, and you’ll never get bored. It’s a game of wits and will keep you guessing longer than your average mystery novel.
