GG (Good Game) in Chess

GG (Good Game)

Definition

“GG” is internet shorthand for “Good game.” In chess, it’s a quick, sportsmanlike way to acknowledge a completed game, regardless of the result. It is most common in online play—especially in Rapid, Blitz, and Bullet—but the sentiment mirrors over-the-board etiquette where players traditionally offer a handshake and a verbal “Good game” after the result.

How it’s used in chess

• Post-game courtesy: Typed in chat immediately after checkmate, resignation, stalemate, or agreed draw.
• Neutral acknowledgment: Indicates respect for the opponent’s effort and the competitive contest, not necessarily that it was perfectly played.
• Variants and tone: “GG WP” (good game, well played) is a slightly stronger compliment; “GGS” means “good games” after a match; sarcastic “gg” midgame or after a blunder can be perceived as bad manners.

Strategic or cultural significance

While “GG” has no direct strategic meaning on the board, it reflects chess culture and sportsmanship. In fast time controls, typing “GG” is a compact ritual that maintains civility despite the speed and intensity of play. Streamers and online communities have amplified its usage; you’ll often see “gg” flood live chats right after a decisive tactic, a Swindle, or a tense Flagging finish.

Etiquette and Best Practices

• Say it after the game ends: Typing “GG” before the result (for instance, while your opponent still has counterplay or drawing chances like a Perpetual or Threefold) can come across as presumptuous.
• Avoid sarcasm: “GG easy” or a smug “gg” after a blunder violates fair-play norms and good sportsmanship.
• OTB parallel: The over-the-board equivalent is a handshake and verbal “Good game.” Respect local customs and tournament regulations (e.g., silence rules during play).
• Result is separate: “GG” is not an official result. Draws must be offered/claimed correctly; resignations and flags follow the rules—see Flag, Dirty flag, Resign, or “No draw offers” in events using Sofia rules.

Examples

Common chat examples

• After resignation: “GG—nice squeeze in that rook endgame.”
• After checkmate: “GG WP! Missed your rook lift on the seventh.”
• After a swindle: “wow… GG. I thought I was lost until your time trouble.”
• Match wrap-up: “GGS, thanks for the set!”
• Sportsmanlike shout-out: “GG k1ng—great defense in the queenless middlegame.”

A miniature that often triggers a quick “GG”

Even short games deserve courtesy. Here’s a quick mate where players might instantly type “gg” after the final move:

1. e4 e5 2. Qh5 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. Qxf7#

Visualize and replay:

When “GG” shows up most

• Bullet/Blitz finishes: After a frantic scramble, players often type “gg” and move on to the next game—especially when someone gets Flagged.
• Swindles and escapes: Conceding a clever resource is part of chess culture; a “gg” acknowledges practical resourcefulness and Practical chances.
• Clean technical wins: In a smooth conversion or a known Book draw/Theoretical draw held under pressure, “gg” marks respect for accuracy.

Historical and cultural notes

“GG” migrated into chess from broader online gaming in the 2000s and became ubiquitous with the rise of online platforms, streaming, and chat-enabled tournaments. While classic OTB legends—Capablanca, Botvinnik, Tal, Kasparov—didn’t type “gg,” the spirit of mutual respect they modeled is the same courtesy “GG” conveys today. Modern broadcasts and creator culture (chess streams, live commentary, and post-game interviews) routinely echo “Good game” as part of healthy competitive etiquette.

Interesting facts and anecdotes

• Players sometimes preface a rematch with “gg, rematch?” or close a match with “ggs, thanks!”—courtesy that helps keep even heated Bullet sets friendly.
• In time-scrambles decided by the clock, a gracious “gg” eases the sting of a loss by Flagging—even if the position was winning on the board.
• “GG WP” is the chess equivalent of acknowledging strong play, whether it was an elegant strategic squeeze, a thematic sacrifice, or a resourceful defensive stand.

Related terms and concepts

• Results and end conditions: Flag, Flag-fall, Draw, Perpetual, Threefold, Fifty-move.
• Culture and etiquette: Coffeehouse chess (showy play), Swindle (turning a lost position), Dirty flag.
• Time controls: Rapid, Blitz, Bullet.

FAQ: “GG” in Chess

Is “GG” part of official notation?

No. It doesn’t appear on scoresheets or PGN; it’s purely social.

Is saying “GG” before the game ends rude?

Often yes. It can imply the result is already decided or mock the opponent. Wait until the game is over.

Does “GG” mean I accept a draw?

No. Draws must be offered/claimed via the platform or according to OTB rules; “GG” has no rules impact.

What if my opponent played poorly—should I still say “GG”?

It’s about courtesy, not quality. If you prefer, “Thanks for the game” is a neutral alternative.

Quick checklist for players

• Type “GG” after the result—win, loss, or draw.
• Consider “GG WP” for especially well-played games.
• Avoid sarcasm and pre-result “gg.”
• Remember: “GG” acknowledges the contest; results are determined by the rules, not chat.

Personal progress note

Many players find that embracing “GG” culture—win or lose—helps control tilt and supports long-term improvement.

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