Report updated Mar 26, 2026
Play Magnus - Play Chess
v5.1.53Chess enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners seeking coaching to advanced players looking to challenge world-class AI personalities.
What Is Play Magnus - Play Chess?
Launched Feb 25, 2014
Updated Jul 2024
What users think iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
Media Gallery
Key Features
Challenge the World Chess Champion at different ages and skill levels with unique banter.
Provides real-time guidance on the quality of your moves during a game.
Play against other world-class players like Wesley So and Judit Polgar.
Recent User Sentiment iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
“Recent user voice shows a frustrated sentiment. Users appreciate engaging concept, but report subscription & billing issues and app stability & crashes.”
What Users Love
I like this game and the way u can choose ages
Playing with A world champion... was a Incredible experience of my life
Pain Points
I canceled my subscription to this app and they kept billing me
I paid for a premium monthly membership... I cannot access any of the paid content
The app crashes often. Very hard to make progress
Every time I beat Magnus, the game crashes
High confidence · 99 reviews available
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong brand association with Magnus Carlsen
- Unique Magnometer AI tool
- Gamified age-based challenge system
Cons
- Critical subscription and billing failures
- Frequent app crashes
- Aggressive advertising
Market Outlook
Growth Opportunities
- Integration with Chess.com ecosystem
- UI/UX modernization
- Expansion of Grandmaster roster
Market Threats
- High churn due to technical instability
- Brand damage from billing disputes
- Competition from optimized, ad-free apps
Key Takeaways
Play Magnus - Play Chess is a frustrating games app that is free with in-app purchases. With a 4.0/5 rating from 32K reviews, it frustrates many users from users. Users particularly appreciate engaging concept, though subscription & billing issues remains a common concern.
Best for: Chess enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners seeking coaching to advanced players looking to challenge world-class AI personalities.
App Details & Pricing
Model: freemium
Uses a freemium model that leverages the brand of a world champion to drive user acquisition, with cross-promotion to other specialized training apps like Magnus Trainer.
iOS Version
5.1.53
Android Version
5.1.61
Release Date
Feb 25, 2014
iOS Price
Free
Android Price
Free
Developer
Chess.com