Waves of Chess
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About Waves of Chess
Waves of Chess is a single-player PC game that merges chess with roguelike progression. Developed by Amusing Noodle Games and released on January 13, 2026, it leans into arcade-style strategy by locking players to one set of chess pieces per run. The goal is to push as far as possible through procedurally generated boards, with each loss resetting your setup but retaining global progress like leaderboard stats. It’s chess stripped down to fast, high-stakes matches with a focus on adaptability and risk management.
Gameplay
Each run is a series of chess matches against AI opponents, with the twist that you can’t replace captured pieces. Matches are turn-based but quick, averaging 10, 15 minutes. Defeating an opponent unlocks the next board, which escalates in difficulty by adding more pieces or altering movement rules. If you lose, you restart from the beginning with the same initial pieces. The controls are straightforward, standard chess mechanics with a few randomized modifiers like swapped piece roles. Progression is light but meaningful, as you unlock cosmetic items and climb leaderboards.
What Players Think
PlayPile users rate it 8.7/10, with 43% completing the core loop. Average playtime is 7.2 hours, and 25% of players report frustration, while 45% feel confident. Reviews highlight the “brutal but fair” difficulty and “addictive reset loop.” Some criticize the lack of variety in AI strategies, with one user calling it “repetitive after 20 runs.” Achievement completion is at 75%, with the hardest unlock being a 100-match win streak. Leaderboard competition is fierce, with top players averaging 14 runs to beat the game.
PlayPile's Take
Waves of Chess is a niche pick for chess enthusiasts who like roguelikes’ reset grind. At $19.99, it’s a low-risk buy for its clever twist on strategy. The short playtime and steep learning curve mean it won’t appeal to everyone, but the competitive edge and tight mechanics make it rewarding for those who stick with it. If you’re okay with losing a lot to learn a little, it’s a sharp, concise challenge worth your time.
Game Modes
Single player
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