Objective of the Game
Laska is a strategic board game originally invented by Emanuel Lasker, a German chess master. The main objective of the game is to either capture all of the opponent's pieces or block the opponent from making any legal moves.
Game Components
The game is played on an 8x8 board but only uses one color of squares, similar to checkers. Each player has twelve pieces in their color: either white or black.
Setup
At the beginning of the game, each player places their twelve pieces on the first three rows closest to their side of the board. The middle two rows remain empty at the start of the game.
Game Rules
- Move: Players take turns moving. Each piece moves one square diagonally forward.
- Capturing: An opponent's piece can be captured by leaping over it, provided the space behind it is free. Multiple captures are possible and mandatory if they arise naturally from the position. This means that if a second capture becomes possible after a jump, the player must make that jump.
- Capturing Rule: When capturing, the opponent’s piece is not removed from the board but is placed under the capturing piece. This piece is now considered a "tower" and can be moved along with the pieces it carries. Towers continue to jump and capture.
- Releasing: If a tower is captured, the original pieces are released and remain on the jumping square. The opponent's piece that was captured becomes placed under the capturing tower.
- Promotion: Existing towers can be moved to the opponent's base line to be promoted to a "King" or "Dame." A "King" can move forward and backward and is very powerful.
Winning the Game
The game ends when a player has no more legal moves or has lost all their pieces on the board. The player with remaining pieces or the one who can still move wins the game.
Strategic Tips
- Positioning: Ensure your pieces are moved strategically to both attack and force multiple forced captures.
- Multiple Captures: Plan moves to potentially capture multiple enemy pieces, maximizing your advantage.
- Minimizing Risks: Avoid leaving towers vulnerable to being freed by enemy captures for too long.
Laska offers deep strategic gameplay and is ideal for players who love and understand chess and checkers.
