<P> In chess , the player who moves first is referred to as `` White '' and the player who moves second is referred to as `` Black '' . Similarly , the pieces that each conducts are called , respectively , `` the white pieces '' and `` the black pieces '' . The pieces are often not literally white and black , but some other colors ( usually a light color and a dark color , respectively ) . The 64 squares of the chessboard , which is colored in a checkered pattern , are likewise referred to as `` white squares '' or `` light squares '' on the one hand , and `` black squares '' or `` dark squares '' on the other . In most cases , the squares are not actually white and black , but a light color and a contrasting dark color . For example , the squares on plastic boards are often off - white ( `` buff '' ) and green , while those on wood boards are often light brown and dark brown . </P>
<P> In chess , the player who moves first is referred to as `` White '' and the player who moves second is referred to as `` Black '' . Similarly , the pieces that each conducts are called , respectively , `` the white pieces '' and `` the black pieces '' . The pieces are often not literally white and black , but some other colors ( usually a light color and a dark color , respectively ) . The 64 squares of the chessboard , which is colored in a checkered pattern , are likewise referred to as `` white squares '' or `` light squares '' on the one hand , and `` black squares '' or `` dark squares '' on the other . In most cases , the squares are not actually white and black , but a light color and a contrasting dark color . For example , the squares on plastic boards are often off - white ( `` buff '' ) and green , while those on wood boards are often light brown and dark brown . </P>
who goes first in chess black or white
who goes first in chess black or white
White
White