Checkers is a classic board game played on an 8x8 square board, similar to a chessboard. Each player starts with 12 pieces, usually colored black and red, placed on the dark squares of the board. The objective is to capture all of the opponent's pieces or block them so they cannot make a move. Players take turns moving their pieces diagonally and can capture an opponent's piece by jumping over it. When a piece reaches the last row on the opponent's side, it is "kinged" and receives a crown, allowing it to move both forward and backward. The game requires strategic thinking and planning, making it popular among players of all ages. Variations of checkers exist, including Draughts and International Checkers, each with slightly different rules and board sizes.