How a king moves
The king moves one square in any direction: forward, backward, sideways, or diagonal.
The king may not move onto a square attacked by the opponent. This is the biggest difference between the king and other pieces. The example shows the king moving one safe square at a time.
King safety
In the opening and middlegame, protect your king and avoid moving it into danger. In the endgame, the king becomes a fighting piece and should help your pawns move forward.
Remember
- The king moves one square at a time.
- It cannot move into check.
- In the opening, keep the king safe. In the endgame, use it actively.