A new way to play on Lichess!

2 years ago we released a public API for Bots, that allows chess engine developers to test their creations against players and other bots.

While the Bot API can also be used by human players, it is restricted to challenge games, and require creating a special BOT account. As a result, it has been mostly used for creating artificial opponents.

Enters the new Board API. Designed for devices that are operated by a single human player, it has a different set of capabilities and restrictions that makes it more suitable to electronic boards and third-party clients. It can be used with a normal Lichess account, and it can play pool games and tournament games.

Here's a comparison of the Board API and the Bot API.

Board API

For e-boards and any chess client operated by a single human player.

Features

Play games, read/write chat, create/receive challenges

Compatible with normal Lichess accounts

Lobby games, tournament games, challenges and AI games

Restrictions

Casual games: Rapid, Classical and Correspondence only

Rated games: Slow Rapid (Estimated duration >= 1200), Classical and Correspondence only

Engine assistance is strictly forbidden

Links

API documentation

Certabo client

Supported clients will be added here as they are implemented!

Bot API

For chess engines, centaur/cyborg play, and vote chess programs.

Features

Play games, read/write chat, create/receive challenges

Engine assistance is allowed

All time controls are allowed

Restrictions

Requires a special BOT account

Only challenge games and AI games. Pools and tournaments are off-limits.

Rated games only grant half the points

No leaderboards

Links

If you develop a chess client based on the new Board API, please let us know, and we will list it here.

Happy coding and chessing!

Illustrations: ChessboARDunio by @bichopebitou

F.A.Q.