Multiplayer

Multiplayer lets you play against another person over the internet. No accounts, no matchmaking — just share a code and start playing.

How It Works

En Parlant~ uses a lightweight WebSocket relay to connect two players. The relay passes moves between clients in real time. Your chess engine, clock, and game logic all run locally — the server just handles message delivery.

The relay server runs on Fly.io and the app connects to it automatically. There’s nothing to configure.

Creating a Game

1. Click Multiplayer from the home screen
2. Enter your name
3. You’ll receive a 6-character game code in the format XX-XX-XX
4. Share this code with your opponent

The host always plays White.

Joining a Game

1. Click Multiplayer from the home screen
2. Enter the code shared by the host
3. Enter your name

The joiner plays Black. Once both players are connected, the game begins immediately.

During the Game

• Moves are relayed in real time — your opponent sees each move as soon as you make it
• Resign and draw offers work the same as in local play
• The board is locked to your color, so you can only move your own pieces

Connection Status

A heartbeat system checks whether your opponent is still connected, pinging every 5 seconds. If the connection drops, you’ll see a status indicator. The game can resume if your opponent reconnects.

What This Is (and Isn’t)

Multiplayer in En Parlant~ is a lightweight relay for playing someone you know. It’s not a full chess server. There’s no:

• Matchmaking or lobby
• Ratings or ranking
• Spectator mode
• Account system
• Clock integration (yet)

Just share the code, play your game, and enjoy.

Running Your Own Relay Server

If you want to self-host the relay (for privacy, LAN play, or lower latency), see the Multiplayer Server setup guide for instructions on running your own instance.