Chess 960 / Fischer-Random: The Chess Variation Explained

Chess 960 is a special chess variant that provides a random factor in the starting position. This refreshes the game of chess.

Chess variant Chess 960 in detail

There are numerous variants in chess, and Chess 960 is one of them. Also known as Fischer-Random, derived from the eleventh world chess champion Bobby Fischer, 960 starting positions are available.

• In Fischer Chess, the highlight lies in the structure of the starting position, which can be different each time and thus requires significantly more creativity and strategy when playing. The 960 combinations are created according to a defined sequence.

• The white and black pawns are placed as usual in rows 2 and 7. The other pieces are placed in mirror symmetry in rows 1 and 8.

• The white pieces indicate the position and the black pieces follow as a mirror image. For example, if the white king is on f1, the black king is placed on f8.

• For the starting position, the king must be between the two rooks at the beginning. The colour of the square does not matter. The king must not stand in one of the corners.
• You must then place the bishops on a black and a white square. You can then place the other pieces in the row as you wish.

• Castling is also possible with Chess 960. The king and rook may not jump over any pieces. The king can castle either with the rook closer to the a-line or the h-line.