Rules for Checkers Official US Checkers Rules, [page not specified]
Expertise: Board game rules expert. | Verification: Cross-referenced official manual text provided in evidence. | Purpose: Resolve the common misconception regarding King movement direction in Checkers.
Key Insight: To avoid arguments, establish that all possible captures in a chosen sequence must be completed.
These rules correspond to the US edition of Checkers.
According to the Official US Checkers Rules (Section V and VI), Kings possess expanded movement and capture capabilities compared to regular men. While regular men move forward only, Kings move forward or backward one square at a time in a diagonal direction to an unoccupied square. When capturing, Kings may jump forward or backward over an opposing man or king on a diagonally adjacent square to the square immediately beyond, provided that square is unoccupied. Kings may continue jumping as l…
Example Play Situation
Alice moves her King diagonally backward to an unoccupied square. Bob attempts to jump over Alice's King, but Alice's King is already occupying the landing square. Alice then uses her King to jump backward over Bob's man to capture it.
Common Misconceptions
Men can only jump forward
Kings can only move forward
Kings cannot jump over other Kings
Quick Reference
You Can
You Cannot
Move Kings forward or backward one square diagonally
Jump over a Checker of the same colour
Capture by jumping over an opponent forward or backward
Jump over the same opposing man or king more than once
Continue jumping if subsequent captures are available
Leave a Checker uncaptured if a jump sequence is possible
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official rule for jumping in Checkers?
Kings can jump forward or backward, while men may only jump forward.
Can a King jump over another King?
Yes, Kings may jump over an opposing king if the landing square is unoccupied.
Is it allowed to jump the same piece twice in one turn?
No, you may never jump over the same opposing man or king more than once.
Do I have to jump if a capture is available?
Yes, whenever a player is able to make a capture, he must do so.
