
Source: oneesports
Magic Chess is a popular auto-battler game mode within the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) universe, developed by Moonton. Unlike the traditional 5v5 MOBA matches for which Mobile Legends is known, Magic Chess offers a strategic and tactical experience where players rely more on decision-making, positioning, and synergy rather than mechanical skills.
This mode has quickly gained popularity since its release because it combines elements of strategy, luck, and hero synergy, making it appealing to both casual and competitive players.
What is Magic Chess?
Players place heroes on a board in Magic Chess, an auto-battler or auto-chess game mode, and watch as their heroes automatically engage in combat with those of their opponents. Instead of giving players direct control during combat, each round is decided by the placement of heroes, the makeup of the team, and synergy effects.
The objective of the game is to outlive your rivals by keeping a potent hero lineup, improving them, and creating potent synergies. Eight players compete against one another in a typical match; each player has a set number of health points. The game goes on until there is just one player left after a player loses a round and loses health.
Key Features of Magic Chess

1. Heroes and Classes
Although they are divided into distinct roles (classes) and origins (factions), Magic Chess employs the same heroes from Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. Every hero has an origin and a class, and combining several heroes from the same category yields potent synergy bonuses.
For example:
- Classes: Mage, Assassin, Marksman, Fighter, Tank, Support.
- Origins/Factions: Western Desert, Empire, Abyss, Dragon Altar, etc.
These combinations enable creative team compositions, offering players a wide range of strategies.
2. Synergies
Synergies are the heart of Magic Chess. They provide additional buffs when a certain number of heroes from the same class or origin are placed on the board.
For instance:
- Mage Synergy: Increases magical damage.
- Tank Synergy: Provides bonus defense and durability.
- Assassin Synergy: Grants critical strike chance and damage.
Building the right synergies is crucial for winning battles consistently.
3. Hero Upgrades
Heroes in Magic Chess can be upgraded by collecting multiple copies of the same hero.
-
3 copies of a 1-star hero → 2-star hero
-
3 copies of a 2-star hero → 3-star hero
A 3-star hero is extremely powerful and can turn the tide of the game if built early enough.
4. Items and Equipment
Similar to MLBB, Magic Chess allows players to equip items on their heroes. Items can be obtained through creep rounds or chess roulettes. Items play a major role in enhancing hero strength, survivability, and synergy potential.
5. The Chessboard
The battlefield is a grid-based chessboard where players strategically place their heroes before each round. Positioning is very important:
-
Tanks should be in the frontline.
-
Assassins and Marksmen should be in the back line.
-
Mages and Supports should be placed safely to maximize their skills.
How to Play Magic Chess

1. Starting the Game
At the beginning, players choose their starting heroes from a small pool. These choices are random, which introduces an element of luck. However, skilled players know how to adapt their strategies based on available options.
2. Gold and Economy Management
Gold is essential in Magic Chess. Players earn gold every round through:
-
Basic income (automatically each round).
-
Interest (extra gold if you save a certain amount).
-
Win or loss streaks (encourages consistency).
Managing gold wisely is one of the most important aspects of the game. Should you save gold to earn interest, or spend it to strengthen your team immediately? Successful players balance both.
3. Leveling Up
Players can level up their commander to increase the number of heroes they can deploy on the board. The higher the level, the more heroes you can field, allowing more synergy combinations.
4. Battle Rounds
Each round, your heroes automatically fight the opponent’s lineup. Battles are simulated without direct control. After the battle, players either win or lose health points depending on the outcome.
5. The Endgame
The game continues until only one player remains. The last standing player with health points is declared the winner.
Strategies to Win in Magic Chess

1. Focus on Synergy
One of the most common beginner mistakes is picking random strong heroes. Instead, you should focus on building synergies. A weaker hero lineup with strong synergy often beats a random lineup of high-star heroes.
2. Positioning is Key
Even with the same heroes, proper positioning can decide the outcome of battles. For example, placing Assassins in the corners allows them to jump to the enemy’s backline quickly, while Tanks in the front absorb damage.
3. Adapt to Opponents
Always keep an eye on what other players are building. If too many players are going for the same synergy, it will be harder to upgrade those heroes. Adapting your strategy is necessary to increase your winning chances.
4. Item Management
Give items to the right heroes. A Marksman should receive attack speed items, while a Tank benefits more from defensive equipment.
5. Balanced Economy
Avoid spending all your gold too early. Saving and earning interest can help you build a stronger late-game lineup.
Why is Magic Chess Popular?
Magic Chess has become a hit for several reasons:
-
Accessibility: It’s free-to-play and included in the Mobile Legends app.
-
Strategy-Based: Focuses on decision-making instead of fast reflexes.
-
Replay Value: Each match is unique because of random hero and item selections.
-
Competitive Scene: Moonton has occasionally hosted Magic Chess tournaments, adding to its popularity among eSports fans.
Conclusion
Magic Chess is more than just a side mode in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang; it is a strategic auto-battler experience that tests your planning, adaptability, and resource management. With its mix of hero synergies, economy strategies, and tactical positioning, it appeals to both casual players looking for fun and competitive gamers seeking a challenge.
Whether you’re new to Mobile Legends or a seasoned player, Magic Chess provides a refreshing alternative to the classic MOBA experience. Its unique mechanics and depth ensure that every match feels different, keeping the excitement alive for players worldwide.