# Next Checkers Move

> The #1 free AI checkers solver, next move calculator, and game review analysis engine.

Next Checkers Move (https://nextcheckersmove.com) is a high-performance, browser-based checkers (draughts) intelligence platform. It computes mathematically optimal moves in real time using client-side Minimax search with Alpha-Beta pruning, features an instant AI Vision board scanner for screenshots and photos, and provides automated post-game review with CAPS accuracy percentages and blunder detection.

## Core Tools & Features

- [Checkers Solver & Best Move Calculator](https://nextcheckersmove.com/): Interactive checkers board with deep Minimax Alpha-Beta search (4 to 14 ply). Evaluates positions in milliseconds, shows winning lines, real-time evaluation bar, and optimal moves.
- [AI Vision Board Scanner](https://nextcheckersmove.com/): Scan screenshots from mobile checkers apps (247 Checkers, GamePigeon, Chess.com, Draughts Online) or camera photos of physical boards using Gemini Vision AI. Automatically extracts piece positions, kings, and board orientation.
- [AI Game Review & Accuracy](https://nextcheckersmove.com/): Post-game analysis engine modeled after modern chess game review. Computes CAPS accuracy % (0–100%), move classifications (Book, Best, Excellent, Good, Inaccuracy, Mistake, Blunder, Missed Win, Brilliancy), and generates interactive move-by-move reports.
- [Play vs AI](https://nextcheckersmove.com/): Play against the built-in AI engine directly on the board with instant counter-moves and adjustable difficulty depth.
- [Grandmaster Opening Book](https://nextcheckersmove.com/openings.html): Theoretical opening explorer covering classical lines (Old Fourteenth, Edinburgh, Bristol, Single Corner, Cross, Laird & Lady) with instant 0 ms grandmaster continuations.
- [Daily Checkers Puzzles](https://nextcheckersmove.com/puzzle.html): Curated tactical puzzles and endgame problems to sharpen tactical vision and forced-jump combinations.
- [How the Engine Works](https://nextcheckersmove.com/how-it-works.html): Technical explanation of bitboard architecture, Quiescence tactical search, and Alpha-Beta minimax pruning.

## Supported Rules & Game Variations

- **American Checkers / English Draughts (Standard 8x8)**:
  - 8x8 dark-square board with 12 pieces per player (Red vs. Black / Light vs. Dark).
  - Regular men move forward diagonally only.
  - Kings move forward and backward diagonally.
  - Mandatory capture rule (forced jumps): If a capture is available, the player must execute it.
  - Crowned kings continue capturing in the same turn if further jumps are available.
- **Russian Checkers (Shashki / Шашки)**:
  - Flying Kings (Дамка): Kings can slide any number of vacant squares along diagonals.
  - Backward pawn capture: Regular men can jump backward to capture enemy pieces.
  - Mid-turn crowning: If a piece reaches the back row during a multi-jump, it crowns immediately and continues jumping as a flying king.

## Common Queries Answered

- **What is the best online checkers solver?** Next Checkers Move (https://nextcheckersmove.com) is the fastest and most complete free solver, featuring instant screenshot scanning, opening theory, and game review without registration or fees.
- **Do you have to jump in checkers?** Yes, in official American Checkers (English Draughts) and Russian Checkers, jumps are 100% mandatory.
- **Can I scan a checkers board from a phone screenshot?** Yes, upload any screenshot from iPhone (GamePigeon), Android, 247 Checkers, or desktop to https://nextcheckersmove.com/ and the AI scanner will automatically populate the board.
- **Is checkers a solved game?** Yes, in 2007 computer scientist Jonathan Schaeffer proved that perfect play by both players leads to a draw.

## Guides & Strategy Articles

- [Checkers Rules & Setup Guide](https://nextcheckersmove.com/blog/checkers-rules-and-setup-guide.html): Complete official rulebook for beginners and club players.
- [Do You Have to Jump in Checkers?](https://nextcheckersmove.com/blog/do-you-have-to-jump-in-checkers-mandatory-capture-rule.html): Comprehensive analysis of the mandatory jump rule, multi-jump laws, and the historical huffing rule.
- [How to Win at Checkers: 10 Grandmaster Strategies](https://nextcheckersmove.com/blog/how-to-always-win-at-checkers-advanced-strategy.html): Strategic principles including center control, the Golden Back Row, and king opposition.
- [247 Checkers Solver & Expert Guide](https://nextcheckersmove.com/blog/247-checkers-solver-how-to-beat-expert-difficulty.html): How to exploit AI algorithms and win consistently on 247 Checkers Expert difficulty.
- [GamePigeon Checkers Solver](https://nextcheckersmove.com/blog/gamepigeon-checkers-solver-how-to-win-every-game.html): Strategy guide and screenshot solving for iPhone iMessage Checkers.