Chess Eccentricities

Any pastime with a history as long and rich as chess is sure to attract its share of variations, creative rule changes and downright wacky ideas. This book collects many interesting (and strange) “eccentricities” in one compact volume. Ever wondered how to play a game of chess with three, four, six or eight players at one time? This book demonstrates several methods, along with the rule changes required for each. Another section contains the histories and rules of many of the worldwide “cousins” of the game, from Indiana chaturanga to Japanese shogi. Why not play with the queen and knight switched places, or a regular force on one side against a force of 16 pawns on the other? Variations on the game are also included, either to stretch the mind with new scenarios or to amuse jaded players. This mix of history, innovation and lunacy can help any player of chess find a new side to the game.