(San Francisco, CA) Language-learning platform Duolingo is expanding its offerings to include a new skill – chess. The upcoming chess course will utilize short puzzles and interactive games to help users learn and practice the intricacies of the game. Players will have the opportunity to engage in “mini-matches” or full games against Duolingo’s own virtual coach, Oscar.

During a recent video call, Duolingo provided a sneak peek of the chess course, showcasing its fun and interactive approach. According to Duolingo group product manager Edwin Bodge, the goal is to make chess accessible to a wide range of skill levels, allowing individuals to dive in at their own pace. This new addition joins existing non-language-based topics on Duolingo such as music and math, expanding the platform’s offerings beyond traditional language learning.

When asked about potential future courses centered around other games, staff software engineer Sammi Siegel hinted at the possibility, stating that the team is observing the reception of the chess course before making further decisions. The chess course is set to launch in beta testing on iOS in English, with plans to expand to more users on iOS in the coming weeks before eventually reaching Android users and offering content in multiple languages.

Monica Earle, Duolingo’s PR director, anticipates a gradual rollout, with the course becoming more widely available over the next few weeks. The platform’s unique approach to learning through gamification continues to evolve, offering users new and engaging ways to expand their skill sets beyond traditional language learning. With the introduction of the chess course, Duolingo is poised to attract a broader audience interested in honing their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.