Internet Go Servers
Thousand of enthusiasts from all over the world are playing go on the Internet right now! You can join them by selecting one of the "servers" listed below, and installing the appropriate "client" software on your computer. Get a game, watch others play, find a teacher, kibitz, chat -- it's a great way to get acquainted with go, or fit in a quick game anytime, anywhere you can get on the Internet.
Most servers enable online play in real time; there are also turn-based servers, where you and youropponent take turns logging in and playing the next move over a period of days. Postal go for the digital age. Each server is a virtual community, with its own distinct character. Try them all and stick with the one that suits you.
- Internet Go Server
(IGS)
The "Mother of All Go Servers" has been around since 1992. With up to 2000 players or more online at any time of the day or night, it's a wild and woolly place where pros play under assumed names, top Asian matches are mirrored in real time, and there's always something exciting going on.
Unlike other servers, IGS publishes its specifications, so various third-party "clients" are also available. Click here to choose one.
- KGS Go Server
KGS also attracts hundreds of players who log into dozens of separate "rooms" for clubs, events, lessons and language groups. You can even start your own room! The KGS "client" (interface) supports advanced options for teachers. A great place to get a lesson from a stronger player.
- Fly
Or Die
No time limits here; you can also play chess, bakgammon and dozens of other games, or try/buy dozens of fun computer games. (FlyorDie donates 30% of every sale to the AGA, so buy your new games here!)
- Dashn.com: Another Korean server where English is spoken, with lots of historical information and extensive coverage of the current pro scene..
- World Web Go
Japan-based server, with up to 100 mostly Japanese users from 9D to 26K logged on at most times, friendly and easy for English speakers to use
- Badukworld.net: Korea-based server with some functions and utilities in English. Log in as "guest" to observe games and get a feel of the place, but you have to register to play.
- WING (Worldwide Internet Go-kaisho): A Japanese server with an English-language interface. Internittent activity.
- Yahoo! Games
The Yahoo! server attracts lots of beginners. Rooms are restricted to 100 users each.
- MSN Gaming Zone
A relatively small Windows-only server.
- Go Shrine A new web based go server with a simple clean interface. No downloads necessary.
- Dragon Go Server : Players of all strengths are waiting for you to make your move.
- Little Golem: 9x9, 13x13 and 19x19 Go tournaments are in progress on this turn-based server, as well as many other games.
- It's Your Turn: Another turn-based server with Go among many games.
- Richard's PBeM Server: Another turn-based server that includes Go.
- Turn-based Go Guild: Information and more about all the turn-based servers where Go is played.
- Online-go.com: A growing turn-based server with many features.
- Free Internet Correspondence Games Server: At last on FICGS, you can play Go (围棋, 바둑, 囲碁, Cờ vây, Го) tournaments and world championship. Because Go will become the last game where computers supremacy won't be, at least before decades. Play this fascinating and complex game at FICGS.