Hobbies And Interests
Center Play
At the beginning of the game, it is important to move your checkers towards the center of the board. The center of the board has double the amount of moves that the side spots have, and this can give your more flexibility in your movements.
It will be much harder for your opponent to set up a successful strategy moving along the edge of the board. He will have half the spaces to move and will control much less of the board.
However, if you̵7;re behind at the bend of the game, stick to the edges of the board. You cannot be jumped if you are on the side. Running your checkers up the side of the board is an effective way to get some late game kings to turn the balance of the game.
Checker Blocks
Always keep at least two or three checkers by each other at all times. Three checkers in a row creates a trap; you move the front checker forward for capture. The two checkers create a block that gives you the ability to capture the checker that just jumped you first checker. Avoid double and triple jumps by keeping at least three by each other at all time.
However, one of the most effective ways to block your opponent̵7;s movements is the four-checker block. This block consists of four checkers right next to each other in a square formation. These blocks are impossible to approach from the front without losing a checker. They also help block reverse captures from kings that have snuck around the back. Try to keep these four-checker blocks in play as long as you can. It may be worth sacrificing a checker or two to break your opponent̵7;s block apart.
King̵7;s Row
Try avoiding moving your back row for as long as you can. Keep those checkers in the back and your opponent will be unable to get a king. If you can keep them there long enough, you can earn some kings of your own. The only way he can make you move your back checkers is to force you to jump one of his pieces. This is still an advantage, as you will capture one of his in exchange for giving him one spot for kings. However, he may also be setting you up for a double or triple jump, so be careful.
Do the Math
Checkers is a game of attrition. Slowly and meticulously whittling your opponent down to nothing takes time and care. Don̵7;t be afraid to sacrifice one or two checkers if you get a chance to capture two or three. Watch for unblocked or free-floating checkers. These checkers have no other checkers to block them from jumps which makes them a prime source for double and triple jumps. Move one of your checkers into getting jumped by a checker that gives you the advantage of the double jump. Though you just lost one checker, your opponent lost two, and you̵7;re further up the board. You may be in position to get a king. At the end of the game, having even one checker more than your opponent usually signifies a win.