CHESS VARIANTS Meaning and
Definition
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Chess variants refer to modified forms of the traditional board game of chess, whereby certain rules, setups, or elements are altered to create a new and distinct gameplay experience. These variations can involve changes to the pieces, board, or mechanics of the game, resulting in a different strategic landscape and tactics. By deviating from the standard rules, chess variants offer players the opportunity to explore alternative strategies, enhance their creativity, and introduce fresh challenges.
Chess variants can differ in complexity, with some variations making subtle adjustments to the original rules, while others may redefine the gameplay dramatically. Examples include variants that incorporate additional pieces, change their movement patterns, or alter the layout of the board. Different games within the chess variant family include Crazyhouse, where pieces captured from the opponent can be reintroduced into play by the capturing player, Chess960, also known as Fischer Random Chess, which randomizes the starting position of the pieces, and Horde Chess, where a player's objective is to capture all of their opponent's pawns.
These variants often attract avid chess enthusiasts who seek to expand their gameplay options or experiment with new approaches. Additionally, chess variants can be played both traditionally, on physical boards with modified rules, or through online platforms that offer various game modes. Renaissance in the popularity of chess variants has resulted in dedicated communities, books, and websites that cater to the exploration, discussion, and analysis of these alternative chess games.
Etymology of CHESS VARIANTS
The word "chess" originated from the Persian word "shāh", which means "king". This term was later adapted in Arabic as "shatranj". Through the Islamic empire, this game was introduced to Europe during the Middle Ages. The European countries developed their versions of the game using their local languages. The term "chess" eventually emerged in English, derived from the Latin "scaccus", which was adapted from the Arabic "shatranj".
The word "variant" has Latin roots. It comes from the Latin word "variare", meaning "to vary" or "to change". Over time, it has been adopted into English to refer to something that differs or deviates from the original or commonly known version or type.
Therefore, when we combine "chess" with "variants", we refer to different versions or variations of the traditional game of chess.
