LASKA: Column checkers

Laska checkers

LASKA: Column checkers is a PC checkers game built around Laska, a 7-by-7 variant invented by chess champion Emanuel Lasker. You move soldiers forward and capture by jumping over an opponent’s column. Captured pieces aren’t removed: the piece that was jumped goes underneath the capturing piece, and the top piece commands the column. When a commander is captured, the piece below it takes control, which can free one of your own pieces.

Captures are mandatory, though you choose a route if more than one is available. Soldiers become officers on reaching the last row, and officers can move and capture backward. You win when your opponent has no legal move, either because their pieces have been taken prisoner or because they’re blocked.