How pawns move and capture in chess
Pawns move straight forward but capture diagonally, and can move two squares on their first move. Learn every pawn rule with practice. How the pieces move · lesson 7 of 8.
The lesson in words
A pawn moves straight forward one square. On its very first move it may go two squares instead.
Pawns never move backwards.
This pawn hasn’t moved yet.
Try it: Tap every square the pawn can move to.
Here’s the twist: pawns capture diagonally, one square forward to either side. And a piece directly in front blocks a pawn.
Try it: Tap every square this pawn can move to.
Pawns are perfect for attacking bigger pieces.
Try it: Capture the knight with your pawn.
Pawns are worth 1 each, but they decide a lot of games. Next: captures and what the pieces are worth.