Wu-Tang Clan launch WuChess

RZA at the piano... but probably thinking about chess.
RZA at the piano... but probably thinking about chess.

It´s what the world´s been waiting for: a website that blends hip-hop and online chess. Set up by the Wu-Tang Clan, WuChess is here and it´s set to “take the game of life to the next level”.

Membership costs $48 for a year and once you´re signed up you can play live chess with people from around the world. Another option is to “get your learn on” on by tackling a virtual opponent. The formation of chess clans is encouraged, and you´ll also be able to watch exhibition matches featuring Wu-Tang members and other stars.

So far, so ‘chessy´ - where´s the hip-hop angle, you might ask? Apparently, members will be given access to MP3s and videos, which may or may not help you with your strategy.

If you want to know more, check out this video of Rakaa from Dilated Peoples explaining what WuChess is all about.

MusicRadar has to wonder where this will all end. A virtual whist drive hosted by Oasis? Online Backgammon with Coldplay? Led Zeppelin´s shove halfpenny? Nothing seems impossible any more.

By Ben Rogerson

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.