Chess.com Expands into Online Poker with New Site Gambit

Chess.com, a leading platform for online chess, has expanded its offerings by launching a beta version of Gambit, a new online poker website. The move marks the company's first venture beyond its core chess offerings, which it has operated for nearly two decades.

Gambit is designed as a free-to-play platform, enabling users to learn and practice poker without any financial risk. This approach aims to attract new players and provide a low-barrier entry point into the game. The site is now preparing for its first livestreamed event and is collaborating with content creators to promote its launch.

Albert Cheng, Chess.com's chief growth officer, stated that poker was selected as the initial expansion area due to its strategic similarities with chess, suggesting a potential overlap in player interest and skill sets. The company views this as a strategic step to diversify its gaming portfolio.

Chess.com has indicated that Gambit is only the first of several new game platforms planned for the future. The company aims to leverage its established user base and expertise in managing online gaming communities to explore other classic game verticals.