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How do I play an odds game?

Learn how to set up unrated odds games on Chess.com to play balanced matches with friends of different skill levels.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Odds game on Chess.com

If you’re playing with a friend who is much stronger or weaker than you, an odds game can make the match more balanced and enjoyable. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Hover over 'Play' in the left-side menu of any Chess.com page and select 'Play' from the options.

  2. Click 'Custom Challenge.'

    Play Online screen on Chess.com

  3. Open the Game Type dropdown and choose 'Custom Position/Odds.'

    Custom challenge screen on Chess.com

  4. Select your preferred time control and the type of odds you want to use. By default, 'Auto Balance' is selected, which adjusts based on the rating difference.

  5. Enter your opponent’s username and click 'Send Challenge.'

    Custom challenge screen on Chess.com

Information to keep in mind

  • To play an odds game, your opponent must be on your friend list - you cannot play against a random member

  • Balanced and odds games are unrated!

Check out this article to learn how to play from a custom position: How can I play a game from a custom position?

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