How to play correspondence chess
Correspondence chess is played by mail between two opponents. Each player considers a move on a physical board, records it using standard algebraic notation, and sends it to the other.
The game unfolds over weeks or months.
One player takes White and opens the match. Colors may be agreed upon in advance or decided by lot. When given as a gift, the recipient traditionally plays White.
Step 1 — Determine Colors
Step 2 — First Move
White considers the opening position and records the first move in standard algebraic notation (e.g., 1. e4).
The move is recorded in the scorebook and written on a move card. The card is stamped and addressed, unless our preaddressed custom cards are used.
The board remains set.
Step 3 — Send by Post
White’s move card is placed in the mail. Days, or even a week or two pass.
Step 4 — Counter Move
Black receives the card, updates the board, considers a response, and the counter move is recorded in the scorebook and written on a move card.
Step 5 — Reply
Black’s move card is stamped and placed in the mail. Again, another few days or weeks pass.
Each exchange advances the game.
Each player sets their own pace.
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