Question 1

How do you play Checkers?

Accepted Answer

Pieces move diagonally one square forward onto dark squares. To capture an opponent's piece, jump diagonally over it into an empty square. Captures are mandatory. When a piece reaches the far row it becomes a king and can move and capture both forward and backward.

Question 2

What is a king in Checkers?

Accepted Answer

A king is a piece that has reached the opponent's back row. It is crowned (shown with a crown) and gains the ability to move and capture diagonally in both directions — forward and backward — making it much more powerful than a regular piece.

Question 3

Are captures mandatory in Checkers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a capture is available you must take it. If multiple captures are possible in a sequence you must continue jumping until no more captures remain. This rule applies to this online version too.

Question 4

How do you win at Checkers?

Accepted Answer

You win by capturing all your opponent's pieces, or by leaving them with no legal moves on their turn. Control the center, keep your back row intact to delay your opponent's kings, and force favorable trades when ahead in material.