Checkers is a classic strategy board game that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is played on a rectangular board with alternating colored squares, typically 64 squares in an 8x8 grid. Players take turns moving pieces, which are usually flat and circular, according to specific rules. The objective is to capture all of your opponent's pieces or block them so they cannot move.
Key features of Checkers games include:
• Two-player gameplay: One player uses light-colored pieces, and the other uses dark-colored pieces.
• Movement rules: Pieces can only move diagonally forward. Upon reaching the opposite end of the board, a piece becomes a king and can move both forward and backward.
• Capturing opponents: A player can capture an opponent's piece by jumping over it to an empty square. Multiple captures can occur in a single turn if opportunities arise.
• Kings: Regular pieces become kings when they reach the last row of the opponent's side, gaining the ability to move backward.
• Winning conditions: The game ends when one player loses all their pieces or has no legal moves left.
Modern Checkers games often include variations, such as international draughts, American Checkers, or themed versions with unique twists.
What is the difference between Checkers and Draughts?
Checkers and Draughts are essentially the same game, with the name varying by region. American Checkers is played on an 8x8 board, while International Draughts often uses a larger 10x10 board.
How many pieces do I start with?
Each player starts with 12 pieces, placed on the dark squares of their respective sides of the board.
Can I capture multiple pieces in one turn?
Yes, if you jump over an opponent's piece and land on an empty square, you can continue capturing if another jump is possible. This allows for multiple captures in a single turn.
