The world of digital learning continues to evolve, and now one of the most well-known platforms is taking a novel step: Duolingo has added chess lessons to its catalogUntil now, the app was known for teaching languages and math, but it has decided to extend its formula to this ancient strategy game, seeking to make it accessible to all types of users.
For those familiar with the dynamics of Duolingo, the arrival of chess represents an opportunity to Learn from scratch or improve previous skills, following an interactive and gradual learning pathThis expansion comes after observing that, although there are numerous digital resources for learning chess, most are geared toward experienced players, leaving a gap for those who want to start or advance without complications.
Duolingo and chess: a commitment to accessible learning
The integration of chess lessons in Duolingo is especially designed for those without experience, as well as for amateurs who want to consolidate the basics of the game. According to the platform's managers, the goal is to replicate the success achieved with other courses, allowing anyone, regardless of age or prior knowledge, to feel comfortable approaching chess.
The app's methodology has been adapted to the particularities of the game: The lessons begin with basic concepts, such as the movement of pieces or essential rules, and as progress is made, more complex challenges and simple strategies are introduced. All of this follows a progressive system very similar to that used in language and math courses, where the user progresses at their own pace and based on the answers they give in the initial activities.
Personalization and progression Duolingo style
When you start the chess course, the app asks about the user's level of knowledge. Based on the response, the learning path is adjusted, ensuring that no one gets lost and that learning is efficient and entertaining. If the user declares themselves a beginner, The first lessons focus on recognizing the board, identifying pieces, and practicing essential moves. Common situations are then addressed, such as check to the king or the capture of enemy pieces.
Duolingo uses its well-known hint and correction system: If you make a mistake during a lesson, the app reflects the error with a reaction from the virtual opponent., showing how you could improve. If you stumble on the same move repeatedly, the app guides you with arrows or visual cues until you find the correct solution. Detailed explanations of each mistake, a feature present in language courses through the "Explain my answer" option, are not currently available. The developers acknowledge that chess is particularly complex in this regard, given the large number of options and nuances in each move.
Practical formats and adapted challenges
At each stage, Users face small challenges: capturing pieces in a limited number of moves, solving strategic mini-puzzles, or completing exercises where a single knight or rook must complete a specific objective. Thus, learning is oriented both toward memorizing rules and developing the logic and spatial vision inherent to chess.
One of the most striking features is the possibility of Play “mini-matches” or full matches against a virtual coach named OscarThis opponent adapts to the player's progress, increasing the difficulty as you advance, but without pushing the player to expert-level matches in the early stages. The system aims to simulate a real-life match environment so the user can practice positions and typical mistakes.
Leveling according to the Elo system and constant feedback
Each block of content represents a specific rank within the Elo system, the world standard for measuring the strength of chess players. Thus, as the user solves exercises and overcomes challenges, the level of difficulty increases, requiring more strategic thinking. This system is similar to the one the app already uses with language levels, such as the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
It is not planned that from the beginning games can be played between users within the platformHowever, the app's developers acknowledge that the feature is on the table and could be implemented in future updates, allowing players to compete and learn alongside friends or players from anywhere in the world.
Availability and next steps
The new chess lessons are now available in beta for some iOS users, in EnglishDuolingo has announced plans to expand availability to more languages and Android devices as they receive feedback from early users and refine details. There's no definitive date for the global launch, but the gradual rollout is expected to accelerate in the coming months.
The first testers and chess enthusiasts have positively valued the initiative, highlighting its accessibility and the possibility of learning without pressure or technicalities. They also see significant potential for Bring chess closer to new generations and promote logical thinking among young people and adults.
Duolingo is positioning itself as a more versatile educational platform, and with the addition of chess, it is entering a phase in which cognitive and strategic skills play a role as important as language proficiency. Technology, gamification, and education combined open new doors for learning complex skills in a simple and entertaining way.
