Checkers

Checkers, also known as draughts, is a beloved board game that combines straightforward rules with surprisingly deep tactical play. The battlefield is an 8x8 board, and the objective hinges on strategic diagonal movement. Each piece can only advance forward until it earns the right to move backward by becoming a king, which injects layers of planning and positional awareness into every match. The game feels approachable for newcomers, yet offers enough complexity to keep veterans engaged for hours. You and your opponent take turns sliding your pieces diagonally, aiming to create favorable trades and force captures. A player wins by capturing all opposing checkers or by blocking them so no legal move remains. Beyond basic jumps, the game rewards players who think several moves ahead, baiting opponents into vulnerable positions. Whether you're playing casually to pass the time or diving into careful calculations, Checkers delivers a satisfying mental workout with every session.

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Checkers

Common Core State Standards

Every game supports specific Common Core standards. Browse the full standards library.

MP3Argue with math MP1Make sense of problems MP5Use tools strategically MP7Use structure 3.OA.A.4Find the unknown factor 3.G.A.2Partition into equal areas 5.G.B.3Figure attributes

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What is Checkers

Ready for a battle of wits on an 8x8 grid? Checkers is a classic test of strategy where every move counts.

How to Play

Take turns moving your pieces diagonally forward one square. Capture an opponent's piece by jumping over it onto an empty square, and continue jumping if multiple captures are possible.

Tips for Playing

Avoid moving your back row too early, as it leaves your rear exposed and limits defensive options.
Centralize your pieces to gain more mobility and control over the board's key squares.
Set up traps by offering a piece that, if captured, leads to a double jump or a king for you.
Promote your pieces to kings as soon as possible, as they can move backward and become much more powerful.
Think about forcing your opponent into moves that break up their formation and create capture chains for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I can make a jump but choose not to?

In standard checkers rules, if a jump is available, you are usually required to take it. Some house rules allow you to decline, but official play enforces captures.

How do I win the game?

You win by capturing all of your opponent's pieces or by leaving them with no legal moves on their turn.

Can a king move multiple squares?

No, kings in standard checkers still move only one square diagonally, but they can move both forward and backward.

What if I have a choice of multiple jumps?

You may choose any jump sequence as long as each jump is legal and the piece continues to land on empty squares. It's often wise to pick the sequence that captures the most pieces or improves your position.

Is checkers the same as chess?

No, they are different games. Checkers uses pieces that move diagonally and capture by jumping, while chess has diverse pieces with unique moves and a capture objective centered on the king.