The pawn is the most numerous piece in the game of chess, typically starting with eight per player. It moves forward one square but captures diagonally. On its first move, a pawn can advance two squares, allowing for quicker positioning on the board. When a pawn reaches the opposite side of the board, it can be promoted to any other piece, usually a queen, which significantly increases its power. This unique ability makes pawns essential for strategic play, as they can transform into stronger pieces and influence the game's outcome.