Moving and capturing
Pieces move diagonally forward one square. When a capture is available you must take it, and if the jump can continue the chain continues in the same turn.
Checkers against the computer
Checkers looks simple and punishes carelessness immediately. This version enforces forced captures and chains multi-jumps for you, so the game plays the way it is actually meant to.
Play CheckersGetting a king
Reach the far row and your piece is crowned. A king moves and captures backwards as well as forwards, which usually settles an endgame.
Winning
Capture every enemy piece, or leave your opponent with no legal move at all. Both count as a win.
Tips that actually help
- Hold your back row early; it stops opposing pieces from being crowned.
- Offer a trade when you are ahead in pieces — simplification wins won games.
- Because captures are forced, a sacrifice can steer your opponent into a longer chain for you.
- Advance in connected pairs rather than sending single pieces forward.
Common questions
- Are captures compulsory?
- Yes. When a jump is available it must be taken, exactly as in standard rules.
- Can kings move backwards?
- Yes, kings move and capture in both directions.
- Is this the same as draughts?
- Yes, checkers and draughts are the same family; this is the standard eight-by-eight version.