Launch of new interface for FIDE Online Arena

World Chess plc (LSE: CHSS), a leading chess organisation committed to enhancing the global mass market appeal of chess by introducing a variety of innovative chess-related activities, is happy to unveil the latest upgrade to FIDE Online Arena (the "Arena").

World Chess is the exclusive operator of the FIDE Online Arena, a chess platform which allows paid members to receive an online rating recognised by FIDE, the international chess federation and world governing body recognised by the International Olympic Committee. Following significant investment in the platform and the subsequent launch of Arena 2.0 in October 2023, the Company is excited to announce the launch of the Arena's all-new interface.

Key new features include the ability to start playing a game of chess with one click, meaning interested users don't have to register and rather can simply click and play, encouraging first-time players to the platform. Users can now also start multiple games in different time controls allowing players to find a relevant opponent faster whilst any chosen settings will now be remembered by the platform and saved for the next time you log in, allowing for a more personalised experience.

At chessarena.com, existing and new users will experience a new design and style to fit with the recognisable World Chess branding as well as entry to masterclasses, easily accessible from the homepage. World Chess expects these updates to encourage new players to join the 740,000 current registered users and to drive additional subscribers with an annual subscription price of €49.

Ilya Merenzon, Chief Executive Officer of World Chess, said: "We are improving the chessarena.com every week, and happy to bring new features and user interface improvements that will help our users discover and enjoy chess.

"We are always learning from our customers, and will continue releasing exciting new features. As we see the continued growth of users, with an increase of 40% since IPO, we encourage you to check out the new Arena interface and join our growing community."