English draughts on an eight-by-eight dark-square board. Men move diagonally forward; captures jump opponent pieces. Reaching the far rank crowns a king that moves diagonally both ways.
Captures are mandatory when available — plan jumps or the rules force a line you did not want.
How to play Checkers
- Dark squares only. Men move one diagonal step forward to an empty square.
- Jump an adjacent opponent piece to capture it; multiple jumps in one turn if available.
- When a man reaches the opposite back row, it becomes a king.
- Kings move diagonally forward or backward.
- Win by capturing all opponent pieces or blocking them completely.
Strategy tips
- Control the center early — edge pieces have fewer jump options.
- If a capture is available, you must take it — scan for forced sequences before casual moves.
- Trade pieces when ahead in material; avoid trades when behind.
- Advance on both flanks so one side is not stuck while the other fights alone.
- Kings in the center dominate — aim your promotion path toward open diagonals.
Common questions
Is this American checkers or international draughts?
English draughts on eight-by-eight: men move forward only until crowned, captures mandatory.
