Google Labs, the experimental arm of the tech giant, has introduced a new online project that offers an entertaining variation of the classic game of chess. Dubbed GenChess, this web experiment utilizes Google's image generation model, Gemini Imagen 3, to allow players to customize their own chess pieces using text prompts.

To try the game, users must sign in with a Gmail account. Once logged in, they can select the "Generate" button and type in the desired theme for their chess set, such as one inspired by sushi or pizza. GenChess offers two styles: classic and creative. The classic version resembles a traditional chess set, while the creative version is more abstract.

After the model generates a complete set, players have the option to edit individual pieces. For example, if the king doesn't meet expectations, users can provide additional text prompts to refine its appearance. Once players are satisfied with their customized chess set, they can generate an opponent to play against. In our testing, Google matched our sushi-themed set with a bot's taco-inspired chess set.

Players can choose between three difficulty settings (easy, medium, and hard) and two timer options (5/3 or 10/0). According to a Google spokesperson, GenChess is mainly designed to "show the collaboration between AI, design, and chess, making it possible for anyone to play with image generation."

As part of the announcement for GenChess, Google revealed four additional chess-related initiatives coinciding with the kickoff of the World Chess Championship, which began on Monday. One notable partnership is with the International Chess Federation (FIDE), which invites people to take part in a coding challenge to create AI chess engines on Kaggle, a Google-owned platform for data scientists and machine learning engineers.

Another initiative is the upcoming launch of the Chess Gem game for Gemini, a new conversational offering that allows players to engage in chess games within the Gemini app. This feature will enable players to test their skills against a language model and even engage in light-hearted banter. However, this feature will only be available to Gemini Advanced subscribers.

The introduction of GenChess and these accompanying initiatives marks a significant step forward in the integration of AI and gaming. By leveraging its image generation capabilities, Google is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in online gaming, making it more accessible and engaging for users. As AI technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how it transforms the gaming landscape.

In conclusion, GenChess is a testament to Google's commitment to innovation and experimentation. By combining AI, design, and chess, Google has created a unique and entertaining experience that is sure to delight chess enthusiasts and gamers alike. With its customizable pieces and AI-powered gameplay, GenChess is an exciting addition to the world of online gaming.