Edit: Since I made this thread, I have come across 3 instances where people are talking about chess in activities that have nothing to do with chess. Online and one while I was out and about. This is really strange. IDK if before I started chess I was running into people talking about it but didn't take notice, OR if it really is becoming THAT big.
Anyone hopped on the current Chess popularity boom, here? I just started playing chess about 2 weeks ago and it's surprisingly engaging. I've known how to play for a long time, but past two weeks I have been playing a game or two daily. Very fun and Easy flow state access as you have to concentrate the whole time if you want to win.
I asked people at work about chess and found out a few people started playing chess within the past few months. There was a lot of drama that resulted in people paying attention to chess, even non-chess players. And apparently there is a popular youtuber league where popular youtubers play against each other. Which you know, causes an influx of new chess players.
https://www.chess.com/ - the largest chess website. It has lessons and puzzles as well but it's behind a paywall, so I recommend lichess.org if you wanna up your game for free. The tactic puzzles are great. And has lessons for beginners -> advanced.