Google Labs launches GenChess to blend AI with creative chess gameplay

Google Labs has unveiled GenChess, a new AI-powered web project that adds a creative twist to the traditional game of chess. The experiment allows players to design their own chess pieces using Google’s Gemini Imagen 3 image-generation model. By typing text prompts, users can customise their chess sets with themes like sushi or pizza, giving each game a personalised touch. GenChess offers two styles: a classic mode that mimics traditional pieces and a creative mode for abstract designs. Players can further refine individual pieces for a truly bespoke gaming experience.

Once the custom set is complete, players can face an AI opponent with chess pieces generated on complementary themes. For instance, a sushi-themed set might compete against a taco-inspired set. Users can select from three difficulty levels—easy, medium, or hard—and two timer options to match their playstyle. The project showcases AI’s potential in creative design and user interaction, merging art and gameplay into one cohesive experience.

The launch of GenChess coincides with Google’s broader initiatives around chess during the World Chess Championship. These include a coding challenge in partnership with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) on Google-owned Kaggle, encouraging participants to create innovative AI chess engines. Additionally, Google plans to launch Chess Gem, an interactive feature in the Gemini app next month. This tool will allow Gemini Advanced subscribers to play chess against a conversational AI, blending gameplay with witty banter. The range of initiatives highlights Google’s commitment to integrating AI into diverse aspects of life, from gaming to advanced problem-solving.