description Bird's Chess Overview
Bird's Chess is a chess variant proposed by the English player Henry Bird in 1874. It uses an 8 by 10 board and adds two compound pieces to each side: the guard, which combines rook and knight movement, and the equerry, which combines bishop and knight movement. The expanded board and extra pieces make it a historical example of attempts to broaden standard chess while retaining its basic checkmate objective.
help Bird's Chess FAQ
Who invented Bird's Chess?
Bird's Chess was proposed by the English chess player Henry Bird in 1874. It modifies standard chess by expanding the board and adding new compound pieces.
How large is the Bird's Chess board?
Bird's Chess uses an 8 by 10 board rather than the standard 8 by 8 chessboard. The extra files create room for additional pieces.
What are the guard and equerry in Bird's Chess?
The guard combines rook and knight movement. The equerry combines bishop and knight movement, making both pieces compound movers with more options than standard chess pieces.
How does Bird's Chess differ strategically from standard chess?
The 8 by 10 board increases the space between the armies and gives the extra pieces unusual attacking ranges. Players must also learn how the guard and equerry alter threats around the king.
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