Games Like Checkmate Showdown

Master your technique, execute flashy combos, and outsmart opponents across the world, frame-by-frame. Slow down the clock to fine-tune your fighting style in this innovative, turn-based combat simulator. Pulverize your friends and choreograph spectacular fight scenes. No training mode required.

Why similar: 2D Fighter 47.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.7%, Turn-Based Tactics 13.9%, Minimalist 7.4%, Action 5.6%

Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly mirrors the tactical, turn-based fighting style where every decision on the grid dictates the outcome of the combat.

Chess, but you replace your entire army with a royal shotgun. A unique strategy roguelike based on the timeless checkboard classic.

Why similar: Chess 66% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.5%, Stylized 4.7%, Strategy 3.4%

Why You'll Like It: It transforms the traditional chess board into a high-stakes combat arena where individual pieces engage in direct, action-oriented conflict.

A fighting game designed from the ground up to be so easy to control that even non-fighting game players can play it, yet deep enough to play in tournaments. Vibrant graphics and excellent online play.

Why similar: Fighting 27.3% ★, Competitive 23.1%, 2D Fighter 17.6%, Local Multiplayer 12.1%, PvP 9%

Why You'll Like It: Designed to be an accessible yet deeply competitive 2D fighter, it focuses on the same fundamental spacing and decision-making found in Checkmate Showdown.

A fighting game where the action only moves when you do. Plan your next move, then strike, evade and punish! Knock 'em down and press the advantage! Fight colorful hand-drawn characters, and challenge your friends to an epic battle of wits!

Why similar: Fighting 32% ★, 2D Fighter 18.5%, Local Multiplayer 12.9%, PvP 8.4%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A turn-based fighting game that strips away the real-time execution barrier while maintaining the core mind games and spacing of a traditional 2D fighter.

Chessplosion is an arcade action puzzle game where you drop chess piece bombs to create chain reactions and trap opponents. Defeat enemies and bosses in Adventure Mode and the roguelike-inspired Dungeon Mode, break targets with limited bombs in Puzzle Mode, or fight friends and AI in Battle Mode.

Why similar: Chess 59.7% ★, Local Multiplayer 13.2%, Multiplayer 11.8%, PvP 8.4%, Action 3.5%

Why You'll Like It: This arcade-style game blends chess movement patterns with real-time bullet-hell combat to create a fast-paced tactical experience.

Battle a friend in this fast paced 1v1 class-based first-person shooter. Chess takes a back-seat to FPS as you win duel after duel and capture the opponent's pieces until you've beaten their king and won the game.

Why similar: Chess 35.9% ★, Board Game 16.5%, PvP 15%, Multiplayer 9.2%, Local Multiplayer 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a chaotic, action-oriented take on chess where the outcome of piece captures is decided by skill-based shooting rather than rules.

FOOTSIES is a simple 2D ground-based fighting game that both new and experienced players can pick up and enjoy right away. Featuring online battle mode with rollback netcode, implemented using GGPO open-source codes.

Why similar: Fighting 40.7% ★, 2D Fighter 32.4%, PvP 14.7%, Multiplayer 5.3%, Action 3.7%

Why You'll Like It: It distills the fighting game genre down to its most essential elements of spacing, baiting, and punishing, much like the neutral game in chess.

Made by hololive fans, for hololive fans. Idol Showdown is the definitive fan-made hololive fighting game experience, powered by rollback netcode. Engage in exciting duels as your favorite hololive talent and prove once and for all who the strongest idol is using the game’s easy-to-learn controls.

Why similar: Fighting 34.3% ★, 2D Fighter 32.1%, PvP 14.6%, Multiplayer 5.2%, Combat 4%

Why You'll Like It: A polished 2D fighting game that offers a deep competitive experience for those who enjoy the fast-paced action of the arena.

Inspired by classic fighting games from the 90's such as Street Fighter, Fatal Fury and The King of Fighters, 'Pocket Bravery' channels the 'Neo Geo Pocket' aesthetic for a modern fighting game with a retro twist!

Why similar: Fighting 32% ★, Competitive 27%, 2D Fighter 16.7%, Local Multiplayer 12%, Multiplayer 6.6%

Why You'll Like It: A high-quality 2D fighter that emphasizes competitive mechanics and technical execution for players who enjoy the combat side of the seed game.

Choose your faction, construct your deck and put your strategy to the test in the evolution of the ultimate collectible tactics game.

Why similar: Competitive 29%, Board Game 16.9%, PvP 14.7%, Turn-Based Tactics 11.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical card-based strategy game that emphasizes unit positioning and board control on a grid, mirroring the strategic depth of chess.

Control powerful mechs from the future to defeat an alien threat. Each attempt to save the world presents a new randomly generated challenge in this turn-based strategy game.

Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 38.1%, Turn-Based Tactics 31.8%, Tactical 17.6%, Strategy 11.5%, Singleplayer 1%

Why You'll Like It: While not a fighter, its grid-based tactical combat requires the same level of foresight and piece-management as a high-level chess match.

Experience a 4K graphics strategy game with tactical depth, breadth, and challenge like nothing you have played before: the perfect mix of Chess, tactical setups and quests inpired by classic RPGs

Why similar: Chess 52.7% ★, Tactical 10.6%, Board Game 10.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.7%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: It integrates traditional chess mechanics with tactical combat encounters, bridging the gap between board games and RPGs.

Jumpala is a fast-paced action puzzler with heavy fighting game vibes. While the core mechanics are simple, each game is a test of skill and strategy as you try to outscore and outplay your opponents. Features both local and online play.

Why similar: Competitive 24.4%, Fighting 21.2% ★, 2D Fighter 15.5%, Local Multiplayer 14.3%, PvP 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: A competitive puzzle-platformer that requires quick reflexes and strategic board control, appealing to fans of hybrid competitive games.

The cutting-edge 2D/3D hybrid graphics pioneered in the Guilty Gear series have been raised to the next level in “GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE-“. The new artistic direction and improved character animations will go beyond anything you’ve seen before in a fighting game!

Why similar: Fighting 43.1% ★, 2D Fighter 24.5%, PvP 10%, Local Multiplayer 9.6%, Multiplayer 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: This title represents the pinnacle of 2D fighting game depth, offering the intense competitive environment that Checkmate Showdown players often seek.

Here comes Capcom’s newest challenger! Street Fighter™ 6 launches worldwide on June 2nd, 2023 and represents the next evolution of the Street Fighter™ series! Street Fighter 6 spans three distinct game modes, including World Tour, Fighting Ground and Battle Hub.

Why similar: Fighting 38.7% ★, 2D Fighter 24.1%, Competitive 16.7%, PvP 6.7%, Local Multiplayer 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for competitive 2D fighting, providing the ultimate test of reaction time and strategic planning.

--Main Stage Game at Evo 2022!-- The ultimate Skullgirls experience: Featuring 14 hand-animated characters, fully voiced story mode, countless palettes, and unparalleled GGPO-based multiplayer netcode.

Why similar: Fighting 40.7% ★, 2D Fighter 19%, Competitive 18.3%, Local Multiplayer 10.1%, Multiplayer 4.8%

Why You'll Like It: A highly technical 2D fighter that rewards players who master complex spacing and strategic character interactions.

Commanders, assemble your armies! CHECK vs. MATE calls for an interactive feather duster, chartering the successful chess game principle into the present day multimedia world. Animated fantasy figurines assemble in magical worlds and await your command!

Why similar: Chess 67.3% ★, Action 16.8%, Strategy 15.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game features classic chess gameplay but adds cinematic combat animations that bring the board to life in a way similar to the seed game.

A FEW QUICK MATCHES is a fast-paced, 1-4 player platform fighter that lets you bring old-school stick battles to life! play with your friends locally, or challenge players online in this flash-inspired spectacle!

Why similar: Fighting 30% ★, 2D Fighter 22.9%, Competitive 17.9%, Local Multiplayer 10.3%, PvP 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: An indie 2D fighter that focuses on fast, local multiplayer matches for players who enjoy the arena combat of the seed game.

Cards and chess collide in Stormbound. Turn-based tactical gameplay, collecting cards and beautiful 2D Art. Level up your army to conquer the ladder.

Why similar: Competitive 34.5%, Board Game 16%, PvP 14.1%, Turn-Based Tactics 11.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical card-battler that uses a grid-based board to simulate front-line combat, requiring careful planning and positioning.

Take to the battlefield with Wargroove, a strategy game for up to 4 players! Choose your Commander and wage turn-based war on battling factions. Design and share maps, cut-scenes and campaigns with easy-to-use editors and in-depth customization tools!

Why similar: Local Multiplayer 21.2%, Turn-Based Tactics 19%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.6%, Tactical 13.2%, PvP 13%

Why You'll Like It: A turn-based tactical game that uses grid-based movement and unit-specific abilities to simulate complex battlefield engagements.

An exciting and fast-paced chess roguelite, full of ridiculous abilities! Explode your opponent's pieces, spawn queens all over the board, move twice in a row... But watch out for the bosses, who have crazy powers of their own!

Why similar: Chess 55.2% ★, Turn-Based Tactics 11.1%, Board Game 9.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.8%, Tactical 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: A roguelite that focuses on turn-based tactical movement on a grid, emphasizing the strategic importance of piece placement.

Introducing Chess Ultra; the most breathtaking chess game ever made. Experience stunning 4K visuals, seamless online multiplayer, Grandmaster approved AI and full VR compatibility.

Why similar: Chess 52.7% ★, Board Game 17.9%, Multiplayer 8.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 7.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: For those who appreciate the pure strategic elegance of chess, this title offers the most polished and visually impressive experience available.

Chess Survivors is a grid based, quick-turn, roguelike where you outmaneuver and destroy an ever growing horde of chess based enemies. Combine abilities, upgrades, and relics to create game-breaking builds. Think fast, die, learn, repeat!

Why similar: Chess 77.4% ★, Tactical 9.7%, 2D 5%, Strategy 4.1%, Action 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A roguelite that uses chess pieces as characters in a bullet-hell environment, blending tactical movement with real-time action.

Divekick is the world’s first two-button fighting game. It distills the essence of the fighting game genre into just two buttons with no d-pad directional movement. Includes two extra playable characters: Fencer from Nidhogg and Johnny Gat from Saints Row!

Why similar: Fighting 59.6% ★, 2D Fighter 20.2%, Local Multiplayer 11.9%, Competitive 4.7%, Multiplayer 1.5%

Why You'll Like It: A minimalist fighting game that removes complex inputs to focus entirely on the mental game of spacing and timing.

There are NO TURNS in this wild version of Chess! Pieces move across the board in real-time, so you'll need to think fast to protect your King!

Why similar: Chess 49.7% ★, Board Game 15.7%, Local Multiplayer 11.7%, PvP 8.7%, Multiplayer 7.3%

Regimental Chess is a battle game where large armies of chess pieces move and capture in mass formations. Up to 372 pieces in a single battle.

Why similar: Chess 56.6% ★, Board Game 18.7%, Multiplayer 10.5%, Turn-Based Tactics 10.4%, Strategy 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A complex chess variant that introduces new unit types and tactical layers for players looking for a deeper strategic challenge.

Whether you're new to chess or a seasoned master, welcome to Chess Infinity—the art of timeless strategy. Immerse yourself in serene environments, sharpen your skills with an adaptive AI mentor, and connect with players worldwide. Embrace endless challenges that transcend eras and borders.

Why similar: Chess 51.3% ★, Board Game 18.2%, PvP 13.5%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.6%, Tactical 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on chess that incorporates puzzle elements and strategic depth for fans of the game's core mechanics.

Pummel Paladins is a 1v1 brawler with a creative twist. Don't be mistaken, just because the knights lost their weapons doesn't mean they are going to stop their destined duel. Push, parry, utilize the environment and items to outplay your opponent in this retro, dungeon arena!

Why similar: Fighting 27.2% ★, Competitive 25.2%, 2D Fighter 17.9%, Local Multiplayer 16.4%, PvP 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled local multiplayer brawler that emphasizes competitive pvp action in a 2D space.

Chess just got an upgrade! Chess Ultimate, where precision strategy meets colorful chaos. Build your team from a roster of unique, quirky characters to defend your King while plotting your opponent’s downfall. Easy to pick up, endlessly fun to master, and a fresh take on the classic game of wits.

Why similar: Chess 35.9% ★, Turn-Based Tactics 16.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 16%, PvP 9.2%, Strategy 7.8%

Play classic chess on Steam: challenge AI opponents, invite friends online, solve puzzles, customize your board, and unlock achievements.

Why similar: Chess 34.6% ★, Board Game 23.1%, Local Multiplayer 13.6%, Turn-Based Tactics 11.6%, PvP 10.8%

Brawlout is the platform fighting game, designed for couch play, online ranked matches and competitive tournaments. Now at 2.0!

Why similar: Fighting 52.5% ★, 2D Fighter 24.5%, Multiplayer 9.1%, Competitive 6.4%, Action 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A platform fighter that offers fast-paced, competitive action for players who enjoy the intensity of fighting games.

Turn-based play is central to Chinese Chess. HyperChineseChess removes this rule—battle AI or players in real-time, using quick thinking to win. Experience classic chess reimagined!

Why similar: Board Game 52.2%, PvP 14.9%, Strategy 14.2%, Combat 11.1%, Multiplayer 7.1%

Action fighting at its extreme! Enter the new beat’em up world of Arad as your favorite character from the beloved Dungeon and Fighter franchise!

Why similar: Fighting 37% ★, 2D Fighter 31.6%, PvP 12.2%, Local Multiplayer 10.4%, Multiplayer 4.7%

A unique chess trip with exciting instant duels awaits you - test your mettle on the chessboard. Checkmate your opponent with only a few moves and solve challenging chess puzzles in amazing 3D worlds.

Why similar: Chess 45.5% ★, 2D Fighter 17.5%, Board Game 15.8%, PvP 10.6%, Multiplayer 6.6%

Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game is a fast-paced 1v1 fighter where you battle as your favorite characters from the Avatar franchise. Featuring hand-drawn 2D animation true to the series’ roots, proprietary rollback netcode, and full cross-play for smooth, competitive gameplay.

Why similar: Fighting 33.4% ★, 2D Fighter 28.2%, PvP 10.6%, Multiplayer 9.6%, Combat 7.7%

Experience the intensity of head-to-head battles with Street Fighter® V! Choose from 16 iconic characters, then battle against friends online or offline with a robust variety of match options.

Why similar: Fighting 50.7% ★, Competitive 18%, 2D Fighter 14.7%, Local Multiplayer 8.5%, Multiplayer 5.4%

Killer Queen Black is a fast-paced, team-based action strategy game where two teams battle for victory in a frantic arcade arena. Coordinate with your queen and workers to outmaneuver the enemy, riding snails, collecting berries, and fighting for military dominance across multiple win conditions.

Why similar: Fighting 28.8% ★, 2D Fighter 27.7%, Local Multiplayer 18.3%, Multiplayer 12.4%, Action 5.3%

RIVALS OF AETHER is an indie fighting game where warring civilizations summon the power of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. Play with up to four players either locally or online.

Why similar: Fighting 39% ★, 2D Fighter 21.2%, Competitive 18.2%, Local Multiplayer 11.9%, Multiplayer 6.9%

League of Masters is a new take on the Auto Chess genre. Our game is a dynamic PvP experience with a deep progression system. Challenge friends and foes in an epic battle of wits that will determine who the true strategist is.

Why similar: Chess 30.9% ★, Competitive 24.3%, PvP 10.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.8%, Tactical 7.4%

Say goodbye to jumping and hello to intense, lightning-fast grounded battles! Arcus Chroma is an offline juggle combo fighting game where dodging and countering are the keys to victory. With a truly unique cast to choose from, let your mind run wild as you master the game's creative combo system.

Why similar: Fighting 47% ★, 2D Fighter 32.3%, PvP 7.4%, Multiplayer 6.2%, Action 4%

Chess Sphere is online multiplayer.

Why similar: Chess 44.9% ★, Board Game 15.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.7%, PvP 8.1%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.8%

Craft explosive combos of units and powers to use in head-to-head auto battler combat against friends, other players or challenging AI. Outplay your opponent with strategic maneuvers and watch the battle unfold on a tabletop arena.

Why similar: Chess 32.2% ★, Competitive 30.3%, PvP 9.2%, Tactical 7.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.5%

Rooks Keep is an arena-based, melee combat game. A variety of game-modes, characters, maps and mutators are available. It also has Chess modes, mod support and decapitation!

Why similar: Action 60.1%, Strategy 39.9%

Rivals of Aether II is the sequel to the hit indie fighting game, Rivals of Aether. Play as both new and returning elemental fighters in the next generation of platform fighters.

Why similar: Fighting 33% ★, 2D Fighter 17.7%, Local Multiplayer 13.9%, Competitive 11.5%, PvP 8.5%

Play and discover 12 popular chess variants, improve your chess skills with hundreds of chess puzzles, or simply play regular chess with your friends - all in one package. This diverse collection includes several chess games and puzzles. All in a minimalist, beautifully designed virtual chess club.

Why similar: Chess 43.1% ★, Board Game 15.4%, PvP 11.4%, Turn-Based Tactics 9.5%, Tactical 7.3%

Feud is a turn-based strategy game. Swap pieces on a four-by-four grid to isolate your opponent's pieces, or go straight for their King. Hone your skills against three AI characters with distinct play-styles, then challenge your friends online or on the same screen.

Why similar: Chess 30.9% ★, Board Game 17%, Local Multiplayer 16.7%, Turn-Based Tactics 10.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 8%

It's the first ever chess variant with spatial, temporal, and parallel dimensions. It's 5D Chess With Multiverse Time Travel! Move pieces back in time to create branching timelines. Send a rook to a parallel dimension. Protect your kings in the present and in the past!

Why similar: Chess 64.2% ★, Board Game 13.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 5.5%, Multiplayer 5.4%, PvP 4.9%

Fighting Fiends is a top-down fighting game. Play it 1 on 1 for intense matches or with up to 4 players for chaotic fun, both locally and online.

Why similar: Fighting 39.9% ★, 2D Fighter 19%, Local Multiplayer 17.9%, Action 13.9%, Multiplayer 9.3%

Diesel Legacy is a 2v2 fighting game where four players battle on the same stage at the same time. This unique twist on the traditional fighting game formula adds an entirely new layer of strategy where cooperation will become the key to success.

Why similar: 2D Fighter 47.2%, PvP 25.6%, Multiplayer 15.8%, Action 6.2%, 2D 4.4%

BAYANI is a 1-on-1, indie fighting game that is heavily inspired by the Philippines’ rich history, culture, and mythology. The game features a combination of 2D fighting and full 3D graphics and simplified 6 button controls with fast-paced gameplay.

Why similar: Fighting 35.4% ★, Local Multiplayer 16.5%, Competitive 15%, PvP 12.1%, Stylized 5.6%

A hundred chess games on Steam. One of them gives you 40 AI opponents up to 2550 Elo, live open lobbies, async play, a league mode, a mini board that sits on your desktop and lessons that turn beginners into threats. You already know which one this is.

Why similar: Chess 41.5% ★, Board Game 15%, Competitive 10.4%, PvP 9.9%, Local Multiplayer 9.2%

The ChessThemed Chess offers a relaxing, minimalist chess experience with multiple boards, piece sets, AI opponents, and multiplayer. Play in 3D or 2D, learn the game’s history, and explore RPG-themed DLC. Free to Play – Download now and enjoy endless strategy!

Why similar: Chess 37% ★, PvP 12.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 11%, Tactical 10.3%, Multiplayer 9.8%

It's judo on a minefield! Tech the grab or die, in this fast-paced 3D fighting game where every! single! throw! is lethal!

Why similar: 2D Fighter 31.4%, Local Multiplayer 28.5%, PvP 18.7%, Combat 10.5%, Multiplayer 10.3%

Are you ready to take on the challenge and become a Checkers champion?

Why similar: Board Game 42.6%, PvP 27.5%, Multiplayer 16.1%, Strategy 13.8%

Inspired by chess, but adding combat that YOU control, Archon was the original Battle Chess. You must try to outmaneuver your opponent using teams of fantasy creatures or monsters in this epic struggle of Light and Dark.

Why similar: Strategy 100%

The competitive 2D volleyball game. ChanceBall is an intensely strategic sports game where you play out exciting rallies, master unique abilities, and dominate your opponents online.

Why similar: PvP 39.7%, Tactical 24.9%, 2D Fighter 14.4%, Multiplayer 11.3%, 2D 9.1%

Lethal League is a competitive projectile fighting game where you have to hit an anti-gravity ball into the face of your opponent to win. The ball speeds up with every strike, up to explosively extreme velocities. Play intense local matches with friends and foes, challenge yourself in the singleplayer mode or battle it out online.

Why similar: Fighting 40.4% ★, 2D Fighter 18.5%, Local Multiplayer 17.7%, Competitive 12.5%, Multiplayer 6.8%