DownloadKhmer Traditional Board Game: Ouk Chaktrang
The first type of Khmer chess game, known to Cambodians as Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ), is a cherished cultural pastime. The term "Ouk" is believed to mimic the sound produced when a chess piece is moved decisively on the board during a check. In the context of the game, "Ouk" specifically means "check," and it is customary for the player to announce it loudly when checking the opponent's King.
The game is formally called "Chaktrang," a name derived from the Sanskrit word Chaturanga (चतुरङ्ग), reflecting its Indian origins. Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang is played between two players, but in Cambodia, it often involves two teams of individuals, adding to the excitement and social aspect of the game. Cambodian men frequently gather to play Ouk Chaktrang at local barbershops or men's cafes, making it a vibrant community activity.
The primary objective of Chaktrang is to checkmate the opponent's King. At the start of the game, the first move is decided by mutual agreement between the players. In subsequent games, the privilege of moving first is typically granted to the loser of the previous match. If the initial game ends in a draw, the decision on who moves first in the next game is once again determined through mutual agreement.
Another Khmer Traditional Board Game: Rek
The second type of Cambodian chess game is known as Rek. For more details on this intriguing game, please see the Rek game section.
