Clean board with one sentence: 'Play. Lose. Learn. Repeat.' No overwhelming options.
User makes a move. If it's weak: the AI shows the best 3 alternatives in a soft panel below the board, with a one-sentence explanation of why each is stronger (e.g., 'This move attacks his rook AND protects yours').
Got it. Here's what we found.
After the game, a simple breakdown: 'You made 8 moves. 3 were strong. 5 missed opportunities. Here's the pattern you need to practice: pawn safety.' Linked to one beginner-friendly follow-up game.