Why Is Chess So Popular in 2023? 4 Main Reasons

If you have been playing chess for any amount of time, you are aware that Chess has been getting more popular than ever in the last few years.

You have probably also asked yourself why chess is getting so popular in 2023? Maybe people finally realized that there are only so many times you can watch “The Queen’s Gambit” before it’s time to actually learn how to play!

Chess is getting increasingly popular in 2023 due to the combination of online platforms, entertaining content, top-level competition, and educational benefits. Some also attribute the recent popularity to the success of Netflix’s “The Queen’s Gambit,” which was about the life of a chess prodigy.

Keep reading to learn more about the main reasons behind the recent popularity of chess.

Chess Popularity In 2023

Chess is still getting more and more popular with every passing year. The game has become more approachable and interesting to a wider audience due to the growth of online chess platforms and the rise of well-known chess content creators, among other reasons. 

Additionally, the quarantine imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly contributed significantly to the popularity rise of chess in 2020 and 2021. Well, when your only options are binge-watching Tiger King or becoming a chess master, it’s not surprising which one people choose.

Many people turned to chess to pass the time and keep their minds active as they spent more time at home and looked for new hobbies to keep themselves busy.

As people looked for methods to interact with others and compete against players from around the world, online chess platforms and tournaments saw a significant spike in traffic.

The popularity of the Netflix original series “The Queen’s Gambit” further boosted interest in the game, which debuted during the pandemic and has millions of views.

This might have been the only pandemic trend that didn’t involve sourdough starters or TikTok dances!

Although chess may have begun to gain popularity before the pandemic, it’s possible that the quarantine expedited this tendency and attracted more individuals to the game.

As a result, chess has developed into a timeless pastime that unites people from all socioeconomic classes who share a passion for strategy, rivalry, and intellectual challenge.

Why Is Chess So Popular Lately?

There are some specific reasons why chess got popular in the past few years other than Anya Taylor-Joy’s performance for Netflix’s hit, which caused chess.com to have thousands of new users up until now. 

These reasons include the following:

Online platforms

Anyone can now play and watch chess from anywhere in the world because of the growth of online chess platforms like Chess.com, Lichess.org, and Chess24. These websites provide chess players the chance to compete against players of different skill levels and also stream live major tournaments.

Whether you are an amateur or a grandmaster, you can always find someone from any level to play against online at any time.

These online platforms allow anyone to play chess literally at any time and with anyone at all levels. This has never been possible in the world of chess before, and we have the Internet to thank for that.

Not only that, but you can also now learn chess from elite players and develop their talents more easily. These online platforms now include training resources, tutorials, and access to top-tier games so users can learn at their own pace.

Moreover, these training materials are actually really good. A few years ago when I started training, you had to buy expensive courses from places like ChessBase if you were getting really serious about chess as the good courses were rare, and so they were expensive, but now, even cheaper courses are really good if you know what to look for.

Streaming and content creation

With the rise of online platforms like Twitch and YouTube, it has become easier than ever for chess players to share their games and connect with a global audience. 

Hikaru Nakamura, Alexandra Botez, and GothamChess (you should check them out if you didn’t) are a few well-known chess streamers and content producers who have made the game more approachable and enjoyable to a larger audience. They produce instructional materials for new players, stream their games, and offer commentary during competitive matches.

The success of top players

The recent success of elite chess players like Wesley So, Fabiano Caruana, and Magnus Carlsen has aided in raising the game’s profile. Their top-level chess matches have attracted new fans who may not have previously been interested in the game due to their drama and intensity.

Also, their success has improved chess’ standing as a genuine sport, raising its profile and prestige.

The more people learn about the accomplishments of these elite players, the more likely they are to get interested in the game and learn more about it, which helps chess maintain its popularity.

Educational benefits

Chess is known to have educational benefits, such as improving critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and concentration. Chess has thus become popular among parents and educators as a way to help kids strengthen their academic performance and acquire crucial life skills.

As more people become aware of these benefits, there is a growing interest in learning and playing the game. I mean, it’s either that or staring at a screen for hours on end. Might as well exercise your brain with some chess!

The PR efforts of top players

Top chess players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura have played a significant role in the recent explosion of chess’s popularity. These players have leveraged social media to connect with fans and promote the sport to wider audiences.

Magnus Carlsen, for instance, has used his status as the world champion to create a brand around his name, hosting tournaments and partnering with sponsors to promote the game.

Hikaru Nakamura, on the other hand, has leveraged the power of streaming platforms like Twitch to build a massive following of fans, streaming his matches and engaging with viewers in real-time, and it’s actually very entertaining even to people outside of the chess world. For example, check out his match against Mittens the kitty chess bot here.

In addition to their success in the game of chess, they have also made several appearances outside of the chess world. Magnus Carlsen has been featured in advertisements for a variety of brands, including G-Star Raw and Porsche, which has helped to bring chess to a wider audience.

He has also made appearances at high-profile events like the World Cup and the Champions League final.

Similarly, Hikaru Nakamura has made a name for himself beyond the chess board, with a cameo appearance in the hit TV series, Succession.

These appearances have helped to elevate their profiles and draw more attention to the sport of chess, making it more accessible and appealing to people who may not have been interested in it before.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recent surge in chess popularity is a welcome development for the sport and its enthusiasts.

The increasing number of viewers tuning in to watch top players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura, as well as the rise of online platforms and esports, has resulted in greater exposure and accessibility for the game.

This increased popularity has also led to more sponsorships, more prize money, and more opportunities for players to make a living from their passion.

Additionally, chess’s strategic complexity, mental challenge, and focus on critical thinking make it an appealing option for people seeking intellectual stimulation and a break from digital distractions.

All in all, the growth of chess’s popularity is a positive thing for the sport, its fans like myself, and those playing it professionally and making a living from it.

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