Ask AI: What is Fischer 960?

Fischer 960, also known as Chess960 or Fischer Random Chess, is a variation of the traditional game of chess that was invented by former World Chess Champion Bobby Fischer. The primary difference between Chess960 and standard chess is the starting position of the pieces on the back rank. In Chess960, the arrangement of the back-rank pieces (excluding the pawns) is randomized, with the following rules to ensure a balanced and playable setup: 1. The bishops must be placed on squares of opposite colors. 2. The kings must be placed between the rooks to allow for the possibility of castling on either side. These rules result in 960 possible starting configurations, hence the name. The pawns, however, are placed in their usual positions on the second rank for both players. The randomization of the starting positions aims to eliminate the extensive pre-game preparation and opening theory that dominates traditional chess, thus placing a greater emphasis on creativity and skill during the game itself. This variation maintains all the other rules of chess, including castling, en passant, and pawn promotion.