Anichess, a Hong Kong-based web3 chess game, has recorded significant growth since its public alpha launch in October 2024. By December 2024, the game had surpassed 100,000 monthly active users, signaling strong global engagement and establishing itself as a key player in the web3 gaming space. Anichess blends traditional chess with blockchain, offering a unique gaming experience that incorporates magical spells and special abilities to create faster, more dynamic matches.

Since its debut, players have participated in over 500,000 matches, amounting to more than 3 million minutes of gameplay. The growing community, comprising 40,000 members on Discord, actively contributes ideas for game features, mechanics, and updates, further driving the game’s evolution.

Anichess Achieves 100,000 Monthly Active Players

About Anichess and Animoca

Anichess is a subsidiary of Animoca Brands focused on modernizing chess through decentralized technologies. By integrating blockchain features such as spell mechanics and tokenization, Anichess offers an innovative take on one of the world’s most enduring games. The platform is free to play and accessible to players of all skill levels, emphasizing a combination of strategic depth and engaging visuals.

Animoca Brands, a leader in web3 innovation, develops and publishes a wide range of blockchain-based games and products. With a portfolio that includes The Sandbox, Crazy Defense Heroes, and PHANTOM GALAXIES™, the company remains at the forefront of digital property rights and open metaverse initiatives. For more information, visit the official websites of Anichess and Animoca Brands.

Animoca Brands IPs

Driving Growth in Hong Kong

Anichess is not only expanding globally but also playing a role in strengthening Hong Kong’s web3 gaming ecosystem. Following a US$1.8 million funding round in April 2024, led by Sfermion and Amber Group, the game has focused on fostering collaboration within the local gaming community. The company partners with developers and educational institutions to organize hackathons, workshops, and internship programs. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between traditional gaming models and the evolving web3 sector.

Anichess is actively participating in key industry events to amplify its presence. It has plans to showcase its innovations at the Consensus Hong Kong event in February 2025 and the Hong Kong web3 Festival in April. In 2024, it participated in the GEN3 Playground event, which educated over 1,000 attendees about blockchain, web3 technologies, and digital ownership.

Anichess Screenshot

Expanding into Asia-Pacific and Beyond

Recognizing the potential of Asia-Pacific markets, Anichess is deepening its focus on key regions such as India, The Philippines, and Vietnam. India, in particular, is a priority due to its strong chess culture and increasing interest in blockchain technologies. With its scalable web3 model, Anichess aims to tap into South Asia’s gaming market while also exploring opportunities in Latin America.

This regional expansion aligns with the company’s broader goal of establishing a robust and engaged player base worldwide. By combining the strategic appeal of chess with modern blockchain features, Anichess is positioned to capture the attention of seasoned and casual gamers.

Chess, Esports, Web3

Future Plans for the Anichess Platform

Looking ahead, Anichess plans to introduce its own play-and-earn model, which will include tournament buy-ins, an in-game marketplace, and premium features. These updates aim to create a self-sustaining in-game economy that enhances the user experience while maintaining the game’s free-to-play accessibility.

Brian Chan, head of Anichess and vice president of operations and projects at Animoca Brands, emphasized the importance of the milestone, stating, “Anichess reaching 100,000 monthly active users showcases the appeal of web3 gaming and our innovative fusion of chess with blockchain. We're proud to have built this game in Hong Kong and to expand it globally, advancing web3 through gaming and chess. As we grow, we will also remain committed to nurturing our roots: Hong Kong's vibrant web3 gaming ecosystem.”