A board game (similar to Terran “chess”), popular amongst nobles and the military, played on a board of 81 squares (9 by 9). Two opposing players attempt to capture each other’s King through use of their army of Men-at-Arms, Archers, and Horsemen. The victory conditions and ransom for captured pieces is agreed upon by the players before starting play.
Man-at-Arms
The Man-at-Arms is the most common piece. It representing a foot soldier. A relatively weak piece, it requires one other supporting attacker, even a second Man-at-Arms, in order to make a valid capture of an opposing piece. The large number of Men-at-Arms in the army makes up for this weakness.
Archer
Each army has four archers, representing bowmen. Their ability to attack over other pieces makes them useful tactically, as they can attack from behind friendly pieces which provide a defence from the opponents pieces. Like the skirmishers they represent, Archers can also retreat using their agile movement to escape threatened capture.
Horseman
Each army has four Horsemen, representing mounted cavalry. They are fast, and can cover a wide area. Their linear movement reflects the mounted charge of real combat.
The King
Ultimately the most important piece of the game, the King represents the army’s commander and if captured the fight is over. While capable the King can be a vulnerable piece, and protecting this piece from capture is critical to playing well.