Capture-the-King

The objective of this game is not simply to checkmate, but to actually capture the king. The player who captures the opponent's king wins.

By allowing king capture, the rules of the game are simplified and many stalemate positions are resolved into wins.
It is legal (although foolish) to leave the king in check or to move into check.
Two kings may meet, and castling of the king over an attacked square is a legal move.

Other moves and powers of the pieces are unchanged. Can be played as standard chess, or any selected variant.

Setup

Standard, or any selected variant.

Pieces

Standard, or any selected variant.

Rules

Standard, or any selected variant; except king may move into, or remain in, check.
The player who captures the opponent's king wins.

Notes

Openings

Castling of the king over an attacked square is a legal move.

Middle

The middle game does not differ significantly from standard chess.

End Game

Many stalemate positions are resolved into wins.

Playing Tips

Play is sharper than in standard chess - beware failing to spot an attack on the king!
In a friendly game, the winning player may offer to take back the winning capture and give the losing player a second chance: but capturing the king for a second time then decides the game.

Computer Play

No known computer players.

Equipment

Standard, or as required for any selected variant.

Sample Games

1. e2-e4	e7-e5
2. f1-b5	d7-d6 (king left en prise)
3. b5xe8	white wins