Chess Rules
Learn how to move chess pieces and basic rules to start playing
Game Objective
The goal of chess is to checkmate your opponent's King. Checkmate occurs when the King is under attack (in check) and has no legal moves to escape capture.
Piece Types and Movements
King
The most important piece. The game ends when it's captured.
Queen
The most powerful piece. Can move any number of squares in any direction.
Rook
Moves any number of squares horizontally or vertically. Used in castling.
Bishop
Moves any number of squares diagonally. Always stays on same color squares.
Knight
Moves in an L-shape. The only piece that can jump over others.
Pawn
Moves forward one square. Can move two on first move. Captures diagonally.
Special Rules
Castling
A special move involving the King and Rook to improve King safety.
En Passant
A special pawn capture that can be made immediately after an opponent's pawn moves two squares.
Promotion
When a pawn reaches the opponent's back rank, it can be promoted to any piece except a King.
Check
When the King is under attack. The player must make a move to get out of check.
Checkmate
When the King is in check and has no legal moves to escape. Game over.
Strategy Tips
Develop Knights and Bishops early in the opening
Castle early to keep your King safe
Control the center four squares
Pay attention to pawn structure
Think carefully before trading pieces