Auto Chess: A Strategic Auto Battler

Auto Chess is a strategic multiplayer online game that originated as a custom mod for Dota 2 and has since evolved into standalone versions by various developers. It falls under the auto battler genre, combining elements of chess, strategy, and RPG influences.

Gameplay Mechanics

• Unit Drafting: Players draft fantastical heroes or creatures, each with unique abilities and classes.
• Team Formation: Units are strategically placed on a chessboard-like battlefield.
• Automated Combat: Units battle opposing teams automatically each round, with players not directly controlling them during combat.
• Unit Upgrades: Duplicates of units can be combined to upgrade them, enhancing their power.
• Resource Management: Players manage limited resources, primarily gold, for purchasing units and items.

Strategic Depth

The core strategic challenge in Auto Chess comes from:

• Understanding synergies between unit classes and races.
• Effective economy management to maximize resources.
• Adapting to and countering changing opponents’ strategies.

Game Flow

Typical rounds involve:

1. Drafting new units.
2. Combat phases.
3. Purchasing new units or items to strengthen the team.

Popularity and Impact

Auto Chess gained widespread popularity due to its novel mechanics and competitive gameplay. It is credited with spawning the auto battler genre, influencing games like Teamfight Tactics and Dota Underlords.

Game Modes and Progression

• Supports both casual and ranked modes for diverse player experiences.
• Progression systems often include multiple currencies:
  • Gold: For in-game purchases.
  • Premium Currencies: For cosmetic or special items.
• Gift codes can provide additional bonuses or resources, enhancing player engagement and retention.

Overall, Auto Chess offers a unique and engaging experience by blending the intellectual challenge of chess with the thrill of RPG combat and an element of random chance, appealing to fans of strategy games.