
International Draughts Strategy Tips
International Draughts is the 10×10 tournament standard played in many countries. Compared to 8×8 checkers, the larger board increases strategic depth, while flying kings and mandatory longest-capture rules create sharp tactical moments. Men may capture both forward and backward, and multi-captures are common.
Use the extra space
The 10×10 board rewards long-term planning. Improve your men gradually, avoid premature trades, and watch how diagonals open as pieces leave the board.
Prepare for forced longest captures
Because the longest capture is forced, many tactics revolve around creating (or avoiding) capture nets. Evaluate the entire sequence, not just the first jump.
Fight for a first king
A flying king has enormous reach on 10×10. Even a single king can dominate open diagonals, so plan promotions and prevent your opponent’s breakthrough.
Keep your structure connected
Men can capture backward, so loose single pieces can be forced into long capture lines. Support your pieces in chains so sacrifices don’t unravel your position.
Open diagonals at the right time
Flying kings become strongest when diagonals are open. Sometimes you want to open a diagonal only after you are ready to crown or after trading into a favorable king endgame.
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