Play Checkers Online — Free Board Game

Checkers — also called Draughts — is the timeless board game of diagonal moves and leaping captures: jump your opponent's pieces, crown your men into kings, and capture them all. Play Checkers free against the computer on a classic board.

How to Play Checkers

Each player has twelve pieces on the dark squares. Pieces move diagonally forward one square; when an enemy piece sits diagonally ahead with an empty square beyond, you jump it.

Moving and capturing

Captures are mandatory — if you can jump, you must.
Multiple jumps in a single turn chain together.
Reach the far row to crown a piece into a King, which moves and jumps both directions.
Win by capturing all enemy pieces or leaving your opponent with no legal move.

Strategy & Tips

Control the centre to give your pieces more options.
Keep your back row intact early to stop opponents crowning kings.
Force trades when you're ahead in material.
Set up multi-jumps — and watch out for your opponent's.
Push for kings; they're far more powerful than ordinary men.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are captures mandatory in Checkers?

Yes — if a jump is available you must take it, and multiple jumps chain together in one turn.

How do you get a King?

Move a piece all the way to the opponent's back row. Kings can then move and capture both forward and backward.

How do you win at Checkers?

Capture all your opponent's pieces, or leave them with no legal move.

Is Checkers free to play?

Yes — free, with no sign-up or download, against the computer.

More Free Games

Enjoy Checkers? Try another: