Checkers

About Checkers

Checkers, also called Draughts in many places, is a classic two-player board game played on the dark squares of a checkerboard. The game is about advancing pieces, making jumps, and turning pieces into kings when they reach the far side.

How to play Checkers

Move your pieces diagonally forward on the dark squares. Capture by jumping over an opposing piece into an empty square beyond it. Reach the opposite end of the board to crown a piece as a king, giving it more movement power.

Who it is for

For players learning to anticipate captures and protect a position. The shared movement pattern makes it approachable, while king threats and forced exchanges give experienced players more to consider.

Features

• Diagonal movement on the dark squares.
• Jump over opposing pieces to capture them.
• Crown pieces as kings at the far side.

Tips for playing Checkers

Try to keep your back row protected early, because it stops easy kings. Look for forced captures and avoid leaving pieces where your opponent can jump them. A strong Checkers position often comes from controlling the centre and setting traps.

Important limitations

Game rules and controls are shown on the page. Results are for entertainment and practice; the site does not provide competitive ranking or guaranteed skill assessment.

Related online games

• 2048
• Chess

Checkers history and background

Checkers is widely described as one of the world's oldest board games, with modern forms developing over time from earlier draughts-style games. It remains popular because the rules are simple but tactical play can be very deep.

Checkers FAQ

What is the difference between Checkers and Draughts?

They are closely related names for the same family of games, though rules can vary by country and version.

How do you win at Checkers?

You usually win by capturing all opposing pieces or leaving the opponent with no legal move.