Checkers
Capture all your opponent's pieces.
↑ This is Checkers running right here in your browser — no download needed.
About the game
Checkers, or Draughts, is a two-player board game on an 8x8 grid. Move diagonally, jump over adjacent enemy pieces to capture them, and promote to a king on the far row.
How to play
Move your pieces diagonally forward; jump an adjacent enemy to capture it, and chain jumps when possible. Reach the opposite edge to become a king with backward moves.
Tips & strategy
["Control the center to limit your opponent's jumps.", 'Trade pieces only when ahead in material.', 'Set up double-corner traps for multi-jumps.']
Advanced guide
Checkers rewards central control and forced trades. Dominate the middle so your opponent has fewer jumping lanes, and look for sequences that let you chain captures across the board. Promote pieces early - a king's backward mobility is decisive in the endgame.
History & origins
Checkers is one of the oldest board games, with roots over 5,000 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a king do?
It moves and captures both forward and backward.
Must I jump if able?
In standard rules, capturing is mandatory.
How do I win?
Capture all opponent pieces or block them from moving.
What is a multi-jump?
A single turn chaining several captures.
Is the first player favored?
Slightly, with correct opening play.
Can a king be captured?
Yes, like any piece, by a legal jump.
Where can I play Checkers for free?
Right on this page — Checkers is embedded above, free, legal, and with no download or sign-up. Play with your keyboard on desktop or touch controls on mobile. Your best score is saved in your browser, so it's still there next time. Every game here is original or open-source, with links that stay valid.