Ouk Chaktrang 38.48

The first type of Cambodian chess game is known as Ouk Chaktrang. The name "Ouk" is believed to originate from the sound produced when a chess piece is placed on the board during a check. In terms of terminology and rules, "Ouk" means check and it is mandatory for the player who checks the enemy King to announce it aloud. The game is also referred to as "Chaktrang," which is a formal name derived from the Indian language, Sanskrit Chaturanga.

Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang requires two players to compete against each other. However, in Cambodia, there are always two teams participating in the game, making it even more thrilling and entertaining. Cambodian men typically gather at barbershops or cafes specifically designated for men in their town or village to play this game.

The objective of Chaktrang, like any other form of chess, is to checkmate the opponent's King. Initially, deciding who moves first is a matter of agreement between the players. Nevertheless, in subsequent games, it is customary for the loser to have the privilege of moving first. If the first game ends in a draw, the players again come to a mutual agreement regarding who should move first in the next game.

The second type of Cambodian chess game is called Rek. Please refer to separate information on the Rek game.