It was preceded by the United States Chess League, which announced in 2016 that it would be renamed, reformatted, and opened to cities from around the world, and moved to the website chess.com.
After the end of the first season, the St. Louis Arch Bishops defeated the Norway Gnomes, thus securing their first title.
Supporters say the league's worldwide distribution, the prize money, and the participation of many of the world's top-rated players may create a new level of competition and awareness for the game.
In addition, the PCL has the potential to dramatically change chess culture and could lead to corporate sponsorships.
This change from an "individual and slow game," to a relatively quick and team format, has made the offering more viewer friendly.