Continuing to gradually expand its game features, Anichess has formed a new partnership with global esports brand Team Secret, whose CEO John Yao will also join the Anichess team as an advisor.

Team Secret is no newcomer to web3 gaming, with a previous collaboration with Offchain Labs L3 network XAI announced in October 2023. With this new partnership, Anichess and Team Secret hope to reinforce the role of chess in esports by combining a new platform to play and learn on for new up-and-coming chess players.

Browser-based Anichess, which is described as “classic chess with a drop of magic” is an Animoca Brands-subsidiary and co-development with Chess.com and multiple world chess champion Magnus Carlsen. Since gradually rolling out its game phases during 2024, the team has also announced new funding, a partnership with Mon protocol, and a forthcoming integration of the newly unveiled Checkmate ecosystem token C into its game.

Ahead of its forthcoming PVP mode later in Q2 2024, Team Secret will advise Anichess on its game design, as well as market the game among its dedicated esports community.

Head of Anichess Brian Chan commented, “Esports has always been a core pillar of Anichess’ modernization of chess’ legacy. Anichess’s engaging visuals, tools to improve and thrilling spells make it an amazing platform for all competitors, regardless of chess experience. We look forward to those willing to take on the challenge when PvP arrives in-game soon.”

“Anichess is a promising twist on chess, with even more of what makes the original great: compelling tactics, broad recognition and rewards for players willing to think outside the box and surprise opponents. I’m looking forward to guiding Anichess into the realm of esports and integrating the new chess platform into our dedicated community,” said Team Secret CEO John Yao.

Stay up-to-date and play the game via the Anichess website.