Overview
International Draughts (also called Polish Draughts) is the most widely played variant of checkers in many countries. Played on a 10x10 board with 20 pieces per player, it features flying kings and mandatory maximum captures.
Around the world
- Polish Draughts
- International Checkers
- Dammen
- Jeu de dames
Strategy
Flying kings are extremely powerful
Getting kings early provides a significant advantage.
The maximum capture rule means planning several moves ahead is essential.
Control the center diagonals for mobility and tactical options.
Keep your pieces connected to protect them from captures.
In the endgame, king vs. king positions require careful technique.
Leave pieces protected when possible
Isolated pieces are vulnerable.
Variations
Russian Draughts
Men can capture backward but cannot move backward. Kings fly.
Brazilian Draughts
Same rules on an 8x8 board.
Pool Checkers
8x8 board with flying kings, popular in the United States.
Frequently asked questions
Capture all opponent's pieces or block them so they cannot move.