Falcon–hunter chess
Falcon–hunter chess
Falcon–hunter chess is a chess variant invented by Karl Schultz in 1943, employing the two fairy chess pieces falcon and hunter. The game takes several forms, including variations hunter chess and decimal falcon–hunter chess added in the 1950s. The game is mostly the same as standard chess, with the addition of two new pieces, the hunter and the falcon. The falcon moves forward diagonally, like a bishop, while retreating like a rook. For the hunter, it’s the other way around. In most variants, the pieces are not on the board at the start of the game. They can either join in the late game by pawn promotion (when one of the pawns reaches the final row of the opponent) or by replacing a slain queen, bishop, knight, or rook.
Why is Falcon–hunter chess Popular?
Falcon-hunter chess is a unique and unfairly forgotten invention of those who tried to break out of the traditional chess game. However, it never gained too much popularity and is not widely known.
Game Components of Falcon–hunter chess
The Game Components of Falcon–hunter chess are the same as standard chess, with the addition of two new pieces, the hunter and the falcon.
Game Setup of Falcon–hunter chess
All the rules and conventions and objective of standard chess apply, including the starting setup. The falcon and hunter start the game off the board and out of play.
Gameplay Mechanics of Falcon–hunter chess
The falcon moves forward as a chess bishop (on diagonals), and backward as a chess rook (along a file). The hunter moves forward as a rook (along a file), and backward as a bishop (on diagonals). Neither piece can move along a rank. The pieces capture the same as they move.
Game Objective of Falcon–hunter chess
All the rules and conventions and objective of standard chess apply.
We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.
