Play Go Against the Computer
Play Go against the computer right here, with a strength you control. Pick Beginner, Casual, or Stronger for the computer, choose any board size separately, and start a free game in your browser — no account and no download.
Play the computer
No account required — start in seconds.
Choose the computer's strength
- Beginner — best for first games: simple, legal, forgiving moves.
- Casual — looks for simple captures and tries to save its own groups.
- Stronger — sharper play that values captures, atari, liberties, and the sides.
Strength and board size are separate
On GoingBoard the computer's strength is its own setting, independent of the board. You can keep the computer on Beginner while you get comfortable on a big 19×19 board, or take a Stronger game on a quick 9×9. Your choice is remembered on your device for next time.
Being straight about it: the built-in computer is a lightweight practice partner — great for learning shapes, captures, and reading — not an expert-level engine. It always plays a legal move and lets you take moves back while you learn.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I change how strong the computer is?
- Yes. Under “New game” you pick Beginner, Casual, or Stronger. You can also change it between games, and your choice is saved on your device.
- Is the computer the same as the board size?
- No. Board size (9×9, 13×13, 19×19) and computer strength are separate choices. Any strength can be played on any board size.
- How strong is the strongest level?
- Stronger plays more sharply than Beginner — it values captures, atari, liberties, and good lines — but it is still a practice opponent, not an expert engine. It is honest about what it is.
Ready to play?
Open the board and start a free game now.