Canadian Checkers
Canadian Checkers at your next game night?
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- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher The Game Crafter, LLC
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play on a 12x12 board with 30 pieces per side. Unpromoted pieces capture forward and backward, while promoted queens move diagonally like a chess bishop. The compulsory capturing rule requires you to take all possible captures in a single move, adding strategic depth and tactical sacrifices.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for players aged 7 and up who enjoy abstract strategy games. It is a two-player game with a short playing time of about 30 minutes. Prior experience with checkers is helpful but not necessary due to clear and simple rules.
How It Works
The game uses a large 12x12 checkered board where each player controls 30 pieces. Unpromoted pieces capture both forward and backward; promoted queens move diagonally any number of squares. Compulsory capturing forces players to capture all possible pieces in one turn, adding tactical complexity. The goal is to capture all opponent pieces or block their moves.
What Makes It Special
Although Canadian Checkers has no credited designer, it stands out due to its large board and compulsory capture rule. It belongs to the Checkers/Draughts family and has digital versions on platforms like Tabletopia. The game combines strategic depth with straightforward rules.
Pro
- Large 12x12 board allows for deeper strategy
- Compulsory capturing adds tactical depth
- Short playing time of about 30 minutes
- Part of the Checkers/Draughts family with digital implementations
Contra
- No credited designer or modern publication
- Strictly a two-player game
- Moderate complexity may deter complete beginners
Setting & atmosphere
The game is an abstract strategy variant popular in Canada, especially Quebec, played on a 12x12 board with 144 squares. It is a variant of traditional checkers.
Tips for beginners
Take advantage of the compulsory capturing rule by planning moves that force multiple captures in one turn.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Canadian Checkers is strictly a two-player game and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it suitable for shorter play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of checkers helps, but the rules are clear enough for newcomers to learn quickly.
How does this compare to similar games?
It differs from classic checkers by using a larger 12x12 board and compulsory capture rules.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable from age 7, its straightforward rules make it family-friendly for older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The compulsory capturing mechanic requires players to perform all possible jumps in one move, adding strategic depth.
Fazit
Canadian Checkers is recommended for fans of abstract strategy who prefer larger boards and tactical captures. It's especially suitable for players seeking a more complex variation of classic checkers.
Canadian Checkers at your next game night?
Add Canadian Checkers to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Canadian Checkers to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
