Magnus Trainer
Gamified learning with lessons featuring Magnus Carlsen.
Free · from $7.99/moiOS 4.5 (33,000 reviews)
Magnus Trainer at a glance
| Price | Free · from $7.99/mo |
|---|---|
| Free tier | Yes |
| Platforms | iOS |
| Best for | Beginner (0 – 1200), Intermediate (1200 – 1800) |
| Publisher | Chess.com (formerly Play Magnus) |
| Website | playmagnus.com |
| Launched | 2016 |
| Last reviewed |
About Magnus Trainer
Magnus Trainer turns chess learning into a Duolingo-style progression of short lessons and mini-games. Originally a Play Magnus standalone app, now part of Chess.com after the 2022 acquisition - still available on iOS, though no longer listed on Google Play, but the iOS version has been in maintenance mode since April 2021.
Pros
- Bite-sized lessons feel addictive, good for habit formation
- Lessons taught by Magnus Carlsen and GM friends
- Good for under-1500 players who want structure
Cons
- Ceiling is low - serious improvers quickly outgrow it
- Premium unlocks most meaningful content
- iOS app last updated April 2021 - feels neglected post-Chess.com acquisition
- No longer on Google Play: the Android listing returned 404 when checked in October 2026
Features
Cloud syncPlay botsTactics puzzlesVideo lessons
Pricing
- Monthly$7.99 /month
- Annual$74.99 /year
- Lifetime$299.99 /one-time
Subscription IAP ranges $4.49-$7.99/month and $37.99-$74.99/year by region.
Best for
Audience: Beginner (0 – 1200), Intermediate (1200 – 1800)
Languages: EN