Google has launched a new chess website that brings a unique twist to the classic game, allowing players to customize their chess pieces using generative AI. The website, released this week, coincides with the start of the 2024 World Chess Championship, where Google is the main sponsor.

The game's innovative feature is its ability to generate custom chess pieces based on a user's input. Players can type in a short description of their desired piece design, and Google's Imagen 3 AI model will create a unique set of pieces. The AI will then automatically generate a related design for the opponent's pieces. For example, when asked to create sci-fi-themed pieces, the AI generated fantasy-themed pieces for the opponent.

While the game itself is functional, it lacks some essential features found in fully-featured chess apps. The game offers three difficulty settings and two time controls, but it does not allow players to review past moves or see which pieces have been captured. Additionally, the game defaults to an isometric view of the board, which can be disorienting for players accustomed to top-down views. However, users can switch to a top-down view in the game's settings.

The release of this new chess game is part of Google's broader efforts to promote chess and celebrate the 2024 World Chess Championship. As the main sponsor of the event, Google is using the occasion to announce several new chess-related products and initiatives. One notable announcement is the forthcoming integration of a chess bot within Gemini, Google's AI chatbot. The new feature, set to launch in December for Gemini Advanced subscribers, will allow users to play chess by typing their moves, with Gemini displaying an updated chess board as the game progresses.

Currently, Gemini's chess capabilities are limited, as the AI chatbot struggles to accurately assess the position on a chess board when presented with an image. It remains to be seen whether the new feature will address these limitations and provide a more comprehensive chess experience.

The integration of AI-generated custom pieces and the forthcoming chess bot within Gemini demonstrate Google's continued exploration of AI-powered gaming experiences. As the company expands its presence in the gaming industry, it will be interesting to see how these innovations impact the world of chess and beyond.

In the context of the 2024 World Chess Championship, Google's new chess game and forthcoming chess bot within Gemini serve as a testament to the company's commitment to promoting chess and supporting the global chess community. As the championship unfolds, it will be exciting to see how these new initiatives shape the future of chess and inspire new generations of players.