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Canadian Checkers Online

Sixty pieces begin on a 12×12 board. Canadian Checkers is familiar International play expanded into a much larger battle.

12×12board30pieces per side72playable squares

International play, expanded

Canadian Checkers carries International-style rules onto a 12×12 board. Each player starts with 30 men, so 60 pieces occupy the position before the first move.

The rules are recognisable; the distances are not. Formations take longer to meet, a weak wing contains more pieces, and an open diagonal can connect sectors that feel far apart.

Position 1 · 12×12 geometryA diagonal can span the battlefield

On the larger board, a flying king can influence distant sectors without leaving its line. Empty space becomes a tactical resource.

The extra space changes development

Men move one diagonal square forward and capture in both directions. With five starting rows to untangle, a single advance can affect the support structure of an entire side of the board.

Maximum capture travels farther

Captures are compulsory, and the route taking the greatest number of pieces must be played. On 12×12, that route may pass through several parts of the board before it ends.

Position 2 · maximum captureCount beyond the first sector

The compulsory route continues through three areas of the board. The first landing is only a checkpoint, not the end of the calculation.

Recount after every landing. A removed piece can uncover a continuation that was invisible at the start of the turn.

Flying kings thrive on the open board

Kings travel along open diagonals and capture from distance. As material disappears, their reach grows quickly; a king parked far from the fight may still control the next forced sequence.

Three numbers define the scale

12×12board30pieces per side72playable squares

Canadian vs International Checkers

The movement, backward captures, flying kings and maximum-capture rule are closely related. International uses 10×10 with 20 pieces per side; Canadian expands the same strategic language to 12×12 with 30.

FAQ

What size is the board?

Twelve rows by twelve columns, with 72 playable squares.

How many pieces does each player start with?

Thirty, so the opening position contains 60 pieces.

Can men capture backward?

Yes, although their ordinary moves are forward.

Is maximum capture compulsory?

Yes. You must choose a complete route taking the greatest number of pieces.

Are kings long-range?

Yes. Flying kings travel across open diagonals.

Is Canadian Checkers the same as International Draughts?

The core rules are very close, but Canadian uses a larger board and ten more starting pieces per player.

Why does the opening feel slower?

More rows, pieces and empty distance separate the formations before contact begins.

Can I practise against the computer?

Yes. Choose Computer to get used to 12×12 calculation before playing another person.