Back row defence in checkers
Keeping pieces on your back row stops your opponent getting kings. Learn which back row pieces to keep and why. Shots and tactics · lesson 3 of 3.
The lesson in words
Your opponent gets a king by reaching your back row. Pieces on it act as guards.
A strong habit: keep the pieces on c1 and e1 at home for as long as you can. Together they cover every square a black piece could land on.
Guard the back row early; release it once the game opens up.
Questions
Why does getting the first king matter so much?
A king can come back and attack pieces from behind, and they have no way to escape.