Pawnimals

Pawnimals brings classic chess to a 3D board populated by animated animal armies. Choose from pigs, rhinos, bears, cats, dogs, elephants, frogs, penguins, dinosaurs, and unicorns, each with distinct designs, animations, sounds, and reactions during play. Play against the computer across five difficulty levels, share local matches with a friend on the same PC, or practise through puzzles and guided lessons. The game also offers a nine-battle Gauntlet, flexible time controls, saved-game replays, and options for adjusting the board view and presentation.

Gameplay and features

• Animal armies and 3D board: Choose from ten animal-themed armies. Pieces animate as they move and react to captures and the outcome of a match; switch between perspective and top-down views.
• Computer and local play: Play against the computer at five difficulty levels, from Beginner to Expert, or share a local two-player match with a friend on the same PC.
• Lessons and puzzles: Explore 100 guided lessons covering chess basics, tactics, strategy, and endgames, or solve 100 themed mate-in-two puzzles.
• Gauntlet and time controls: Take a chosen champion through a nine-battle tower with Easy, Medium, and Hard challenges. Play untimed or select Classical, Rapid, Blitz, or custom clocks.
• Replay and customization: Review saved games and import PGN files. Adjust text size, animation speed, audio levels, reduced animation, color-assist markers, camera settings, and board rotation.
• Danger Sense: In Beginner and Easy computer matches, preview the first three different risky moves with a ghost capture showing how a piece could be taken.

Frequently asked questions

Can I play Pawnimals with someone on the same computer?

Yes. Pawnimals supports local two-player matches on the same PC.

What learning options are included?

The Royal Chess Academy offers 100 guided lessons on board basics, tactics, strategy, and endgames. There are also 100 mate-in-two puzzles.

Can I change the chess clock?

Yes. You can play without a timer or choose Classical, Rapid, Blitz, or custom time controls.

Can I review or import chess games?

Yes. Pawnimals supports reviewing saved games and importing PGN files.