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 46.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 17%, Turn-Based Tactics 14.3%, Minimalist 7.4%, Action 5.5%

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.

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 26.7%, Competitive 23.2%, 2D Fighter 17.5%, Local Multiplayer 12.1%, PvP 9.3%

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 31.3%, 2D Fighter 18.5%, Local Multiplayer 12.8%, PvP 8.6%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.3%

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.

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

Why similar: Chess 65.7% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12.2%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.5%, Stylized 4.8%, Strategy 3.5%

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.

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%, Multiplayer 12%, PvP 8.5%, Action 3.3%

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.

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 40.1%, 2D Fighter 32.5%, PvP 15.1%, Multiplayer 5.5%, 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.

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 35.7% ★, Board Game 17.2%, PvP 15.7%, Multiplayer 9.6%, Local Multiplayer 8.4%

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.

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 31.5%, Competitive 27.1%, 2D Fighter 16.8%, Local Multiplayer 12.1%, Multiplayer 6.8%

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.

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 33.7%, 2D Fighter 32%, PvP 15%, Multiplayer 5.3%, Combat 4.1%

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.

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 28.4%, Board Game 16.9%, PvP 14.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 11.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.2%

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 38.3%, Turn-Based Tactics 31.6%, Tactical 17.5%, Strategy 11.7%, 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 52.4% ★, Tactical 10.7%, Board Game 10.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.8%

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 20.7%, 2D Fighter 15.5%, Local Multiplayer 14.3%, PvP 9.1%

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 42%, 2D Fighter 24.6%, PvP 10.5%, Local Multiplayer 9.8%, Multiplayer 5.5%

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 37.5%, 2D Fighter 24.4%, Competitive 17%, PvP 6.9%, Multiplayer 6%

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 40.1%, 2D Fighter 19.1%, Competitive 18.4%, Local Multiplayer 10.1%, Multiplayer 5%

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

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 29.6%, 2D Fighter 22.8%, Competitive 18.2%, Local Multiplayer 10.4%, PvP 7.1%

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.

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 67.5% ★, Action 16.3%, Strategy 16.2%

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.

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%, Board Game 16%, PvP 14.2%, Turn-Based Tactics 11.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.2%

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 20.7%, Turn-Based Tactics 19.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.7%, 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 54.9% ★, Turn-Based Tactics 11.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.9%, Board Game 9.9%, 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 52.3% ★, Board Game 18%, Multiplayer 8.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 7.9%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.4%

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 77.3% ★, Tactical 9.8%, 2D 5.1%, Strategy 4.2%, Action 3.7%

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.

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 56.3% ★, Board Game 18.7%, Multiplayer 10.6%, Turn-Based Tactics 10.5%, Strategy 3.9%

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.

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 15.8%, Local Multiplayer 11.5%, PvP 8.8%, Multiplayer 7.4%

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 59.4%, 2D Fighter 20.5%, Local Multiplayer 12%, Competitive 4.5%, 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.

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 51.1% ★, Board Game 18%, PvP 13.6%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.7%, Tactical 3.9%

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.

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 35.5% ★, Turn-Based Tactics 16.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 16%, PvP 9.3%, Strategy 7.8%

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 26.8%, Competitive 25.3%, 2D Fighter 17.9%, Local Multiplayer 16.5%, PvP 11.3%

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

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

Why similar: Fighting 52%, 2D Fighter 24.7%, Multiplayer 9.4%, 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 51.9%, PvP 15%, Strategy 14.4%, Combat 11.1%, Multiplayer 7.1%

Chess: The Grand Strategy Game - Your Pocket Edition for Mastery and Fun!

Why similar: Chess 32.6% ★, Board Game 24%, Local Multiplayer 13.2%, Turn-Based Tactics 12.2%, PvP 11.4%

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 36.4%, 2D Fighter 31.6%, PvP 12.6%, Local Multiplayer 10.4%, Multiplayer 4.8%

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 38.7%, 2D Fighter 21.1%, Competitive 18.2%, Local Multiplayer 12%, Multiplayer 7.1%

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 17.2%, Board Game 15.9%, PvP 10.7%, Multiplayer 6.7%

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 23.9%, PvP 10.9%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.9%, Tactical 7.5%

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 29.8%, PvP 9.3%, Tactical 7.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.6%

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 46.3%, 2D Fighter 32.4%, PvP 7.6%, Multiplayer 6.4%, Action 4%

Chess Sphere is multiplayer online across multiple platforms.

Why similar: Chess 44.6% ★, Board Game 15.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.7%, PvP 8.2%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.9%

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 30.8% ★, Board Game 17%, Local Multiplayer 16.4%, Turn-Based Tactics 10.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.1%

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 50.1%, Competitive 18.2%, 2D Fighter 14.7%, Local Multiplayer 8.6%, Multiplayer 5.6%

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 58.8%, Strategy 41.2%

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 32%, 2D Fighter 17.9%, Local Multiplayer 14%, Competitive 11.6%, PvP 8.9%

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 42.9% ★, Board Game 15.4%, PvP 11.5%, Turn-Based Tactics 9.6%, Tactical 7.3%

An all-star cast of heroes has gathered to test their mettle in this cute and chaotic new color-matching ONLINE combat game! Crystal Crisis is presented like a fighting game, but players attack by arranging falling crystals and clearing them from the screen. It’s the ultimate Online puzzle battle throwdown!

Why similar: Competitive 57%, Local Multiplayer 23.4%, Multiplayer 14.3%, Action 5.3%

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 46.6%, PvP 26%, Multiplayer 16%, Action 6%, 2D 4.5%

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 39.4%, 2D Fighter 19.2%, Local Multiplayer 18%, Action 13.8%, Multiplayer 9.6%

Simple yet highly flexible hi-speed 2D Fighting game! Enjoy the thrill of fighting with all the flashy moves!

Why similar: Fighting 51%, 2D Fighter 34.9%, Local Multiplayer 8.1%, Action 5.7%, Singleplayer 0.2%

Stick Fight is a physics-based couch/online fighting game where you battle it out as the iconic stick figures from the golden age of the internet.

Why similar: Fighting 37.8%, 2D Fighter 16.6%, Local Multiplayer 16.3%, Multiplayer 14%, PvP 9.6%

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 39.8%, 2D Fighter 18.6%, Local Multiplayer 17.8%, Competitive 12.6%, Multiplayer 7%

Chess variation with unique twist: Black turns White into undead like themselves

Why similar: Chess 48.1% ★, Local Multiplayer 16.2%, Board Game 11.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 9%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.2%

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 31.1%, Local Multiplayer 28.3%, PvP 19.1%, Combat 10.6%, Multiplayer 10.5%

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 36.7% ★, PvP 12.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.1%, Tactical 10.3%, Multiplayer 9.9%

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% ★, Board Game 13.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 5.6%, Multiplayer 5.4%, PvP 4.9%

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

Why similar: Board Game 42.3%, PvP 27.6%, Multiplayer 16.1%, Strategy 14%

Gambonanza is a turn-based chess roguelike, set on a tiny board with higher stakes. Master tactical twists, invest your winnings and discover new rule-bending Gambits, tile and piece combinations. Face off against challenging bosses and get lost in all the ways you can break traditional chess!

Why similar: Chess 52.1% ★, Board Game 18.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.1%, Tactical 10.6%, 2D 3.8%

Build a deck and battle online in real-time action with rollback netcode!

Why similar: 2D Fighter 36%, Fighting 24.1%, PvP 12.3%, Combat 9.4%, Multiplayer 7.2%