How Do You Play Checkers? Rules for Beginners

Checkers basics board setup showing initial piece positions and diagonal move example

Checkers is a game that most people have seen, yet not everyone understands it completely. The board looks simple. The pieces all look the same. However, when the game starts, each manoeuvre counts.

You will find this guide to be the answer to your question of how do you play checkers or are you looking for the rules of checkers. At the conclusion, you will understand the mechanics of checkers, and you will be able to win your first match as you play the game online or offline.

FAQs

Yes, jumps are mandatory in official checkers rules. When there is a capture, you have to take it, and when there is another capture, you have to keep on jumping.
No, a regular piece can only move one square diagonally forward. Only kings can go backwards.
The American customary rules do not permit a player to make an illegal move, and this means that he or she loses the game. The game is terminated when the pieces are on the board, and it cannot be played anymore.
All the players begin with the 12 pieces on dark squares. They compose the first three rows on each side of the board.