First Position is the most fundamental endgame pattern in checkers literature. Discovered centuries ago, it shows how 2 Kings can systematically trap and defeat 2 enemy Kings using the Opposition.
1. Recognizing First Position
First Position occurs when the attacker has 2 Kings and controls the Opposition, while the defender's 2 Kings are trapped in separate corners or restricted to single diagonals.
2. Board Setup & Strategic Positioning
The attacker's goal is to force one of the defender's Kings into the single corner (Square 4 or 29) while keeping the second defender King isolated on the opposite side of the board.
3. Key Traps & Defensive Counter-Play
- Establish Opposition across the center diagonal.
- Block the defender from accessing the Double Corner.
- Force a 1-for-1 trade that leaves 1 King vs 1 trapped King.