- CEO
- Anders Brandt
- Full Time Employees
- 234
- Sector
- Technology
- Industry
- Software - Application
- Address
- Tordenskiolds Gate 2 Oslo Norway 0160
- IPO Date
- Feb 22, 2021
- Business
- Play Magnus AS is a Norwegian company specializing in providing premier chess entertainment and educational experiences through a suite of digital platforms and services. Its main products and services include e-learning and entertainment offerings via its leading brands such as chess24, Chessable, iChess, New In Chess, Everyman Chess, Magnus Academy, Aimchess, the Play Magnus App Suite, and the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour. These platforms enable users worldwide to play, watch, study, coach, and compete in chess, serving millions of chess players, students, and enthusiasts. Established in 2013 by World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen alongside co-founders Espen Agdestein and Anders Brandt, the company operates globally with a significant digital footprint across multiple continents.
In recent major developments, Play Magnus AS was acquired by Chess.com, LLC in December 2022 for approximately NOK 800 million (around $82.9 million), with the transaction closing after unanimous approval from Play Magnus' board and regulatory clearance. Post-acquisition, Magnus Carlsen signed on as a Chess.com ambassador, actively participating in Chess.com's event circuit including the Speed Chess Championship and PRO Chess League, enhancing the company’s profile in competitive chess. The integration has led to strategic synergies such as expanded tournament schedules, enhanced premium user perks across platforms, improved analytical tools through Aimchess technology, and unified commentary teams. This acquisition marked a significant strategic expansion consolidating Play Magnus' offerings within the world's largest chess platform ecosystem.
The company’s mission centers on growing chess globally by making it more accessible and engaging, aiming to foster a smarter world by encouraging more people to play, watch, learn, and earn from chess. Its product ecosystem supports players of all levels and professionals, providing tools for mastering chess skills, viewing elite tournaments, and participating in community and professional events. Play Magnus AS was listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange in 2020 and has received investments aimed at technology development and market expansion, including a $11.3 million funding round in 2024 backed by Norwegian investors.
Overall, Play Magnus AS operates at the intersection of e-learning, digital entertainment, and sports technology in the chess industry, leveraging its strong brand portfolio and the global appeal of Magnus Carlsen to maintain leadership in the chess digital services market. The company's recent acquisition by Chess.com signals a major shift towards consolidated market presence and enriched user experiences within a larger chess community network.