Khmer Traditional Board Game: Ouk Chaktrang
The first type of Khmer chess game, cherished by Cambodians, is known as Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ). The name "Ouk" is derived from the sound produced when a chess piece, or chessman, is moved across the chessboard during a check. In the context of the game's rules and terminology, "Ouk" signifies a check, and it is customary for the player to vocally announce "Ouk" when they put the opponent's King in check.
The term "Chaktrang" is the formal name for the game and originates from the Sanskrit word "Chaturanga" (चतुरङ्ग), indicating its Indian roots. Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang is a two-player game. However, in Cambodia, it's common for the game to involve two teams, which adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment. Typically, Cambodian men gather to play Ouk Chaktrang at local barbershops or men's cafes within their towns or villages.
The primary objective of Chaktrang is to checkmate the opponent’s King. At the start of the game, the decision on who moves first is made by mutual agreement among the players. In subsequent games, the loser traditionally earns the right to make the first move. If the initial game ends in a draw, the players again reach a mutual agreement to determine who goes first in the next round.
The Second Type of Cambodian Chess: Rek
The second traditional Cambodian chess game is known as Rek. For more detailed information, please see the Rek game also.
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