Introduction
Chess is a strategic board game that has been around for centuries. It requires two players and a game board with 64 squares of alternating colors, typically black and white. Setting up a chess board can seem daunting for beginners, but with the right steps, it can be a quick and easy process. In this guide, we will walk you through how to set up a chess board correctly for an enjoyable game experience.
Materials Needed
Before we begin setting up the chessboard, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You will need:
- A chess board
- 32 chess pieces (16 white, 16 black)
- Two players
Once you have all these materials, you can begin setting up your chessboard.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have all the materials, let´s dive into the step-by-step process of setting up a chess board:
Step 1: Set up the board
Place the chess board between the two players, so it is perpendicular to them. The board should have a dark square on the right-hand side of each player. This dark square is known as the “corner square,” and it is where the rook (castle) piece will be placed later on. Ensure that the board is secured on a flat surface, so it does not move during the game.
Step 2: Place the pawns
Pawns are the smallest pieces on the chessboard, and they are placed on the second row of the board. Starting from the left side of the board, place eight pawns for each player, one on each dark square. These are the only pieces that cannot move backward and can only move one square at a time, except on their first move, where they have the option to move two squares.
Step 3: Place the major pieces
The major pieces, also known as the “royal pieces,” consist of the king, queen, bishop, knight, and rook (or castle). Each player starts with one king and one queen, two bishops, two knights, and two rooks. The queen always starts on her own color – white queen on the white square and black queen on the black square. The king always starts on the remaining color. In between the queen and king, place the bishops, followed by the knights and finally the rooks.
Step 4: Check the setup
Make sure that all the pieces are correctly placed on the chessboard. The queen should be on the same-colored square, the knights should be next to the bishops, and the king should be between the two rooks. Double-check to ensure that both players have the same number of pieces.
Step 5: Start the game
Once the chess board is set up, the game can begin. The player with the white pieces will make the first move. The ultimate objective of the game is to capture the opponent´s king or make it unable to move, also known as checkmate. The game can also end in a draw if neither player is able to accomplish this goal.
Additional Tips
To enhance your chess experience, here are some additional tips to keep in mind when setting up the chess board:
- Always place the white queen on a light square, and the black queen on a dark square. This will make it easier to differentiate between the two queens during the game.
- Use a chess set that is suitable for your skill level. For beginners, a standard-sized board with pieces that are easy to distinguish is recommended.
- Make sure the lighting is sufficient, so the players can clearly see the board and pieces.
With these tips in mind, you are now ready to set up a chess board and enjoy a game with a friend or family member.