How to play checkers

Have you ever been at a gathering with friends or family when someone pulls out a classic checkers board? You might find yourself wanting to join in the fun but feeling a bit uncertain about the rules and how to play. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just need a refresher on the basics, understanding checkers can help you engage in friendly competition. Here’s a guide to get you started on this timeless game.

To play checkers, each player starts with 12 pieces placed on the dark squares of the first three rows nearest to them. Players take turns moving one piece diagonally forward to an adjacent unoccupied square. If an opponent’s piece occupies a square directly diagonal to your piece, you can jump over it, capturing it, and must continue jumping if possible. The objective is to capture all of the opponent’s pieces or block them so they cannot move.

To dive deeper into the game, start by setting up the checkers board correctly. Each player has 12 pieces, usually one player uses dark pieces and the other light. Position the pieces on the three rows closest to each player, filling only the dark squares. The first player always moves their pieces down the board, maintaining in the diagonal movement.

As you play, remember that capturing is a key strategy; if you can jump over an opponent’s piece, you must do so, removing that piece from the board. If you reach the opposite end of the board with one of your pieces, it gets “kinged,” becoming a double-layered piece that can move both forward and backward. The game progresses until one player captures all the opponent’s pieces or blocks them from moving, declaring victory. Enjoy the social aspect of the game, strategizing your moves while enjoying the moments of competition!