Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ)

Khmer Traditional Board Game

The first type of Khmer chess game, cherished by Cambodians, is known as Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ). The term "Ouk" is believed to originate from the sound produced when a chess piece checks another on the board. In the context of the game's terminology and rules, "Ouk" signifies a check, and it's customary for the player to verbally announce "Ouk" when checking the opponent's King.

The game's formal name, "Chaktrang," derives from the Sanskrit word Chaturanga (चतुरङ्ग), reflecting its Indian origins. Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang is played between two individuals, yet in Cambodia, it often involves two teams, adding an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the match. It's common for Cambodian men to gather at local barbershops or men's cafes in their towns or villages to enjoy a game.

The ultimate goal of Chaktrang, like chess, is to checkmate the opponent's King. The decision on who moves first in the initial game is typically reached by mutual agreement among the players. For subsequent games, the privilege of the first move is usually granted to the loser of the previous match. In the event of a draw in the first game, players again rely on mutual agreement to determine who goes first next.

The second type of Cambodian chess game is Rek. For more detailed information, please see the Rek game as well.