Checkers is one of the oldest and simplest board games in the world. Yet for a game that looks so easy, it can be surprisingly tricky to win—especially against someone who knows what they’re doing. But here’s the good news: winning at checkers isn’t about luck. It’s about strategy, patience, and making the right moves at the right time.
In this article, we break down some of the best beginner and intermediate tips to help you not just play checkers—but win at it. Whether you’re playing for fun, family bragging rights, or sharpening your thinking skills, this guide will show you how to become a better checkers player step by step.
Before you can win, you need to make sure you fully understand how the game works. Checkers is played on an 8×8 board, with 12 pieces per player, placed on the dark squares only. The goal is simple: capture all your opponent’s pieces or block them so they can’t move.
Each piece can move forward diagonally. If an opponent’s piece is in front of yours with an empty space behind it, you can “jump” over it and remove it from the board. If multiple jumps are possible, you can keep jumping as long as legal moves exist. Once your piece reaches the last row on your opponent’s side, it becomes a “king” and can move both forward and backward.
Now that we’ve refreshed the basics, let’s get to the good stuff—how to win.
Like in chess, controlling the center of the board in checkers is crucial. If your pieces are spread out in the center, you have more flexibility, better defense, and more options to attack. Don’t just line up your pieces on the back row and wait. Push forward to claim those middle squares early in the game.
Why it works: The center gives you power. It limits your opponent’s choices and keeps your pieces active. It also helps you set up traps more easily, since you’ll be in the perfect spot to jump or block their next move.
One of the biggest beginner mistakes is trying to turn all your pieces into kings right away. Yes, kings are strong, but in your rush to crown a piece, you might leave your back row open. That’s a recipe for disaster.
Keep at least one or two pieces on your back row as long as possible. This protects you from your opponent sneaking behind your lines and crowning their own pieces too easily.
Pro move: Use your back-row pieces like a shield. Only move them when it’s safe or absolutely necessary.
Checkers is all about making your opponent think they’re in control—then turning the tables. One smart way to win is by setting up a trap. This means you make a move that looks like a mistake, but actually sets up a double jump or an opportunity to capture more than one piece.
Here’s a simple trap example: Move a piece where your opponent thinks they can jump it. But when they do, they land in a spot where you can jump them back—maybe even twice.
Important: Don’t try this every time, or your opponent will catch on. Use traps wisely and mix them with solid moves.
Solo pieces are easy to jump. When your checkers are spaced out, they’re vulnerable. But when your pieces are close together in a group or line, they can protect each other. This is called “linking,” and it’s one of the simplest ways to keep your side strong.
When possible, keep your pieces in diagonal pairs or small formations. Not only does this block jumps, but it also gives you more options to move and jump yourself.
Bonus: Linked pieces can also block your opponent’s forward movement, which puts pressure on them to make risky moves.
Checkers isn’t just about what you do—it’s about what you make the other person do. By placing your pieces smartly, you can force your opponent into situations where they have no good moves. This is especially helpful when they’re trying to set up jumps or go for a king.
Watch for opportunities to lead them into a trap or cut off their choices. If you can predict where they’re likely to move next, you can plan ahead and take control.
Smart tactic: Offer them a jump that leads them into a bad position—like landing near one of your kings or falling into a double-jump trap.
Kings can move backward, which makes them incredibly powerful. But don’t get too excited and charge them into danger. A king should be used strategically. It’s great for defense, blocking paths, and turning the tide of the game.
Try to get at least one king in the mid-game. Once you have a king, use it to sweep the board and create pressure. But always watch out—your opponent will likely try to trap or block your king if they see it as a threat.
Don’t do this: Avoid bringing your king too close to enemy lines unless you’re sure it’s safe.
This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most important checkers strategies: slow down. A lot of players rush through their turns, only thinking about the next move. But great players think two or three moves ahead. They consider not just what move is best now, but what will happen after their opponent responds.
Before you move, ask yourself:
Even just thinking one extra step ahead can change everything.
At the end of the day, the best way to win at checkers is by playing more. Each game teaches you something new—how people react, how to spot traps, and how to control the board. The more you play, the better your instincts and strategy will become.
You can practice online against computer opponents or play with friends and family. Try different tactics and see what works best for your style. Some people are aggressive attackers. Others prefer to defend and wait. Figure out your strengths and lean into them.
Checkers might seem like a kids’ game, but don’t be fooled. It requires skill, focus, and strategy—just like chess or any other classic game. The good news is that you don’t need to be a genius to get better. You just need the right mindset and a little practice.
If you remember to:
…you’ll be surprised how often you start winning. Whether you’re playing at home, in a tournament, or online, these tips can make you a stronger, smarter, and more confident checkers player.
So the next time someone says, “Wanna play a game of checkers?”—you’ll be ready to say, “Let’s go.”
Ryan Garcia vs Devin Haney: Exact Fight Time and How to Watch
Each February, America transforms. Cities turn electric, living rooms become stadiums, and millions gather for…
The stars are no longer the final frontier—they’re the next battleground for innovation, ambition, and…
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant future—it’s the dynamic present, and U.S.-based companies are…
Standing tall against the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan, Chicago’s skyline is more than a…
Chicago’s Riverwalk is more than just a scenic stretch of waterfront—it’s a celebration of the…
New York City is vast and ever-changing, but no borough captures its creative pulse quite…