Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ)

Khmer Traditional Board Game: Ouk Chaktrang and Rek

The traditional Cambodian chess game, known as Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ), holds a special place in the hearts of Cambodians. The term "Ouk" derives from the sound produced when a chess piece is moved on the board to check an opponent's King. In gameplay, "Ouk" signifies a check, which the player must announce when threatening the enemy's King.

The name "Chaktrang" comes from the Sanskrit word "Chaturanga" (चतुरङ्ग), reflecting its Indian origins. Similar to international chess, Ouk Chaktrang is a two-player game, yet it is commonly enjoyed by groups in Cambodia, enhancing the excitement and social aspect of the game. Cambodian men often gather in barbershops or men's cafes in their towns or villages to play.

The primary objective of Chaktrang, like chess, is to checkmate the opponent's King. The decision on who moves first is typically made by mutual agreement. In subsequent games, the player who lost the previous game usually gets the first move. If a game ends in a draw, players again decide by mutual agreement who will start the next game.

Another beloved Cambodian chess variant is Rek. For a detailed look at the Rek game, please see the section on Rek.