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Extrapawn Chess

This page contains one or more presets for playing a game online with Game Courier, an online server for playing Chess variants by correspondence.

In Extrapawn Chess the rules are the same as in orthodox chess, except that an extra pawn is placed in the reserve. Players may either move a piece or pawn, or drop the extra pawn from the reserve. The extra pawn may only be introduced on the second rank at occasions when a board pawn moves two steps (simply drop the extra pawn on the board pawn). Should a player refrain from inserting his extra pawn at these occasions, then he has forfeited his chance of introducing it. Note that pieces and pawns are allowed to move before the extra pawn has been dropped.

It is a difficult strategical question whether one should wait, or immediately make use of the drop move to advance a centre pawn two steps, thereby also creating an extra centre pawn. But dropping the extra pawn on the king- or queen file could block the development of the bishop. Waiting has its obvious advantages, although the alternative positions where the pawn can be dropped will become fewer and fewer.


The extra pawn can only be introduced
at occasions when a pawn on the second
rank can move two steps.


In the following preset moves are validated and automated, including castling and 'en passant', but check, etc., are not parsed. Pieces can be moved by pointing and clicking. When introducing the external pawn, simply drop it on the board pawn. When promoting a pawn, it will automatically turn into a Queen. Should you prefer another piece then you must type it manually (e.g., add N a8; capture a7). Use small piece-letters for black. E-mails to your opponent are generated.


Extrapawn Chess


(A Zillions program and more information is here.)


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By M Winther.
Web page created: 2010-02-17. Web page last updated: 2010-02-17