Cambodian Traditional Board Games: Ouk Chaktrang and Rek
Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ) is a popular Cambodian chess variant. The name "Ouk" is onomatopoeic, mimicking the sound of pieces on the board during a check. In the game, "Ouk" signifies a check, and must be announced by the checking player. "Chaktrang" is a formal term derived from the Sanskrit "Chaturanga" (चतुरङ्ग), reflecting the game's Indian origins.
Unlike international chess, Ouk Chaktrang often involves teams of players, adding to the excitement. Cambodian men frequently play in social settings like barbershops or cafes. The objective remains the same: checkmate the opponent's king. The starting player is typically decided by agreement, with the loser of the previous game often gaining the first move. Draws are also resolved through mutual agreement.
For information on a second type of Cambodian chess, Rek, please refer to the separate Rek game description.
