Chess pieces

How the king moves in chess

The king moves one square in any direction.

The king movement rule

The king may move one square horizontally, vertically or diagonally, but never onto an attacked square.

A move is legal only when it leaves your own king safe. The king captures an opposing piece by finishing on its square.

How to use the king

Keep the king safe before chasing material. Castling often moves it away from the open center.

Select one of your pieces in Wizard Chess to see every legal destination highlighted on the 3D board.