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Place 12 pieces for each player on the dark squares of their first three rows. In English Draughts, pieces are placed on the 12 dark squares closest to each player. Black traditionally moves first.

Win by capturing all enemy pieces or by blocking your opponent so they have no legal moves. A draw occurs when neither player can win, or by agreement.

Regular pieces (men) move diagonally forward one square to an empty dark square. Captures are made by jumping diagonally over an adjacent enemy piece to an empty square beyond it. If a capture is available, you must take it (mandatory capture rule).

Control the center of the board - it gives your pieces more mobility. Advance pieces in pairs to protect each other from capture. Try to get kings early - they're much more powerful than regular pieces.

International Draughts: Played on 10x10 board, kings can fly (move multiple squares), longest capture sequence required. Brazilian Draughts: 8x8 board with flying kings and mandatory longest capture. Russian Draughts: Flying kings, men can capture backwards but not move backwards.