How the Chess Rook Moves

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How the Chess Rook Moves

Rooks are the heavy artillery of the chess board.

The Rook can move any number of squares along its row or its column. The diagram shows that a Rook in the center of an empty chess board can move to 14 different squares. In fact, the Rook is the only piece that always has the same number of squares at its disposal on an empty board. The other pieces all have fewer moves when sitting on the side of the chess board or in a corner.

The Rook can't hop over other pieces. The diagram shows that the white Rook is blocked by the White Pawns, but can capture the Black Pawn. It can't go any further than these pieces.

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How the Chess Rook Moves
Rooks are the heavy artillery of the chess board.
The Rook can move any number of squares along its row or its column. The diagram shows that a Rook in the center of an empty chess board can move to 14 different squares. In fact, the Rook is the only piece that always has the same number of squares at its disposal on an empty board. The other pieces all have fewer moves when sitting on the side of the chess board or in a corner. The Rook can't hop over other pieces. The diagram shows that the white Rook is blocked by the White Pawns, but can capture the Black Pawn. It can't go any further than these pieces. Previous Page -- Next Page Back to Introduction to the Rules