Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ)

Khmer Traditional Board Game: Ouk Chaktrang

The first type of Khmer chess game, cherished by Cambodians, is known as Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ). The term "Ouk" is believed to mimic the sound produced when a chess piece moves on the board during a check. In the context of the game's rules and terminology, "Ouk" signifies a check, and players are required to audibly announce it when they check the opponent's King.

The game is formally called "Chaktrang," a name derived from the Sanskrit word "Chaturanga" (चतुरङ्ग) from India. Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang is a game for two players, yet in Cambodia, it often involves two teams, adding an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to each match. Traditionally, Cambodian men gather at local barbershops or men's cafes in their towns or villages to enjoy this game.

The primary objective of Chaktrang, akin to international chess, is to checkmate the opponent's King. At the start of the game, the decision on who moves first is typically agreed upon by the players. For subsequent games, the loser of the previous match is usually granted the privilege to move first. If the initial game ends in a draw, the players once again come to a mutual agreement on who should start the next game.

The Second Type of Cambodian Chess Game: Rek

The second traditional Cambodian chess game is known as Rek. For further details on the Rek game, please see the specific section dedicated to it.