How to Play Weiqi Online (Free, in Your Browser)

Answer first: To play Weiqi online, open a browser Go client, choose a board size (start with 9×9 if you are new), and play either an AI opponent or a real-time human. With sharp.go you get a free 3D board — no install.

● 5 minutes

01

Quick start on sharp.go

From zero to first stone.

• 01.

  Open game.weiqi.app

  Use a current Chromium, Firefox, or Safari browser.

• 02.

  Create an account

  Needed for online history and matchmaking; Cosumi-style anonymous micro-boards are a different niche.

• 03.

  Pick a board size

  9×9 for learning, 13×13 for mid-size fights, 19×19 for the standard game.

• 04.

  Play AI or find a match

  Use AI to learn 3D camera controls; then try real-time multiplayer.

• 05.

  Review the game

  Replay your stones, note captures, and try another game while patterns are fresh.

● Basics

02

Rules you need before your first online game

You only need a short checklist: place stones on intersections (not squares), capture by removing the last liberty, respect ko, and count territory at the end. For a fuller entity overview, read What is Weiqi?.

Online clocks (absolute time, byo-yomi, or Canadian overtime) vary by server. If you are new, prefer unranked / casual time settings until the interface feels natural.

● Choosing a client

03

3D Weiqi vs classic 2D servers

Need	Better fit
Feel stones in 3D, modern browser UX	sharp.go (Weiqi 3D)
Huge ladder + established community	Classic servers (e.g. OGS)
Instant 9×9 with no account	Casual micro-board sites (e.g. Cosumi)

Fair takeaway: sharp.go competes on immersive board craft, not on being the largest ladder. See also best browser Go games and our Cosumi alternative page.

● Practice plan

04

Your first week online

• ✓

  Days 1–2

  Ten 9×9 AI games. Goal: never forget to check liberties.

• ✓

  Days 3–4

  Mix 9×9 human games with short AI reviews of one mistake per game.

• ✓

  Days 5–7

  One 13×13 or slow 19×19. Goal: finish without panic-passing.

● Playing Weiqi online — FAQ

01 Do I need to install software to play Weiqi online? ▾

No. Browser clients such as sharp.go at game.weiqi.app run in a modern desktop or mobile browser.

02 What board size should beginners use? ▾

Start on 9×9 to learn capture and eyes. Move to 13×13, then 19×19, as fights become clearer.

03 Is online Weiqi free? ▾

Many servers offer free play. sharp.go is free to play in the browser; optional paid extras may appear later without pay-to-win ladders.

04 Should I play humans or AI first? ▾

AI is ideal for learning controls and basic tactics without clock pressure. Switch to real-time human games when you want matchmaking and social play.

Start a free online game

Open the 3D board in your browser and place your first stone.

Play Weiqi 3D ↗ What is Weiqi? →