ChessMood Review: Is it worth it in 2025?
ChessMood has gained significant recognition as one of the best online platforms for chess improvement. It offers structured learning paths, high-quality courses from Grandmasters, and an active community for players to engage and grow. But is ChessMood worth it in 2025? This guide provides a complete review, covering features, pricing, pros, cons, and how it compares to other platforms.
What is ChessMood?
ChessMood is an online chess training platform founded by Grandmasters. It focuses on structured learning through high-quality video courses, interactive live sessions, and a strong community. The platform is designed for players of all levels, particularly those looking to reach expert and master-level play.
Features and Offerings
ChessMood provides a variety of resources to help chess players improve systematically. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Grandmaster-Crafted Courses
- Over 500 hours of lessons
- Covers openings, middlegame, and endgame
- Regular updates with new courses
2. Training Exercises
- 10,000+ handpicked training positions
- Practical exercises to reinforce learning
3. Live and Recorded Sessions
- Weekly live webinars with Grandmasters
- 60+ hours of live event recordings
4. AI Features & Downloadable PGN Files
- Interactive AI-driven chess analysis
- PGN files for studying openings and training
5. Community and Interaction
- Access to a private Discord group
- Ask Grandmasters questions in the Pro forum
- Group lessons and webinars
Pricing and Subscription Plans
ChessMood offers two main plans: Essential and Pro. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Feature | Essential ($79/month) | Pro ($99/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Grandmaster-crafted courses | ✅ 500+ hours | ✅ 500+ hours |
| New courses & updates | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Training exercises | ✅ 10,000+ | ✅ 10,000+ |
| AI Features | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Downloadable PGN Files | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Weekly webinars | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| ChessMood Opening Practice | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Play vs Grandmaster | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Group Lessons & Webinars | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Live event recordings | ❌ No | ✅ 600+ hours |
| Ask GM in “Pro” Forum | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Pro Members Discord | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 1-on-1 GM Call | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Bonus) |
| Personalized Study Plan | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
- Yearly Plans: Essential ($948/year), Pro ($1,188/year). Additional 20% off with my link.
- Lifetime Option: Available but pricing is undisclosed.
- 20% Discount: Use my sign-up link to get 20% off on all plans, making the yearly plan even more valuable.
- Refund Policy: 30-day money-back guarantee.
Strengths of ChessMood
- Structured Learning: Step-by-step progress from beginner to advanced.
- High-Quality Content: Courses created by experienced Grandmasters.
- Engaging Community: Active forums and Discord support.
- Live Sessions: Regular webinars and group lessons.
- Comprehensive Opening Repertoire: Great for players looking to improve their opening play.
- Great for Kids and Adults: For kids, it’s an interesting platform like a chess YouTube without distractions. For adults, it’s a non-committal platform where you can learn at your own pace.
ChessMood Review and Pro Membership Tour Video
Following video is recorded by me (FM Nikhil Dixit)
ChessMood vs Hiring a GM Coach
Hiring a Grandmaster for private coaching can easily cost $70-$150 per hour. In comparison, ChessMood offers unlimited access to GM lessons for a fraction of the price, making it an affordable alternative for serious learners.
Who Should Join ChessMood?
Ideal Candidates:
- Players rated 1200-2300 looking for structured improvement.
- Chess enthusiasts who prefer video-based learning.
- Those who want interactive learning with GMs.
Who Might Not Benefit?
- Complete beginners (might be overwhelming).
- Players looking for extensive one-on-one coaching.
- Those on a tight budget.
Success Stories & Testimonials
ChessMood has helped numerous players gain 200-400 rating points in a few months. Many users praise the opening repertoire and structured approach, making it easier to follow and improve efficiently.
Read all the success stories on ChessMood website
Final Verdict – Is ChessMood Worth It in 2025?
Pros:
✅ High-quality structured learning from Grandmasters
✅ Comprehensive opening repertoire
✅ Engaging live sessions & community support
✅ AI-based training exercises
✅ 30-day money-back guarantee
✅ 20% discount available on all plans
✅ Great platform for kids and adults alike
✅ Much cheaper than hiring a private GM coach
Cons:
❌ Expensive for casual learners
❌ Limited one-on-one coaching
Final Recommendation
If you’re a serious chess player (1200-2300 rating) looking for structured training and strong community support, ChessMood is an excellent investment.
Disclaimer: This review contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you sign up using my link. However, this is not a sponsored review, and all views are my personal opinion.