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About American Checkers
American Checkers (also called English Draughts) is the familiar 8×8 checkers variant with mandatory captures, forward-only men, and short kings.
It is easy to learn but tactically rich. Because captures are forced, good play is about setting traps, choosing the right capture sequence, and promoting a king at the right moment.
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Play American Checkers vs AI
Play American Checkers online against the computer to practice forced-capture tactics and endgames with short kings.
Try to keep your pieces connected, protect your back row when needed, and look for multi-jump opportunities created by mandatory captures.
How to play American Checkers
Men move diagonally forward and capture forward only. Kings are short: they move and capture one square diagonally in any direction.
Captures are mandatory when available, and multi-jump captures must be continued as long as captures remain.
Improve by learning strategy
American Checkers strategy rewards patience and structure. Use pairs and chains to prevent easy captures and to create safe advances.
Because kings are short, promotion timing is critical. Trade when ahead, and aim to crown first in simplified positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. In American Checkers, men capture forward only. Kings capture in all diagonal directions.
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