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Cambodian Chess (Ouk)

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description Cambodian Chess (Ouk) Overview

Ouk, also called Ouk Chatrang or Cambodian Chess, is a Cambodian regional chess variant closely related to Thai Makruk. It is played on an eight-by-eight board with a distinct piece set and starting arrangement; Cambodian rules include special first-move options for the king and the piece corresponding to the chess queen, and use counting rules in some endgames. The game is for players interested in Southeast Asian board-game traditions and non-FIDE chess variants.

help Cambodian Chess (Ouk) FAQ

Is Cambodian Chess the same game as Makruk?

Ouk, also called Ouk Chatrang, is the Cambodian relative of Thailand's Makruk and shares much of its chaturanga-based structure. Both games use an 8-by-8 board and 16 pieces per side, but their local rules and terminology are not identical.

Can pawns move three squares in Cambodian Chess?

In a common standard ruleset, the Trey, or fish pawn, moves one square forward and captures diagonally, without the international chess two-square first move or en passant. The unusual opening setup places pawns on the third and sixth ranks, with the kings positioned crosswise.

What are the pieces called in Ouk?

The main pieces include the Ang or king, Neang, Koul, Ses, Tuuk, and Trey, which correspond broadly to king, queen-like piece, general, horse, boat, and pawn. The Neang has a much more limited movement than a Western chess queen.

Can I play Ouk online?

The PyChess platform lists Ouk Chaktrang as a playable chess variant. Ouk was also included among Cambodia's traditional sports at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games.

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