Cambodian Traditional Board Games: Ouk Chaktrang and Rek

Ouk Chaktrang (អុកចត្រង្គ) is a popular Cambodian chess variant. The name "Ouk" is onomatopoeic, mimicking the sound of pieces moving on the board, and also signifies "check" within the game's rules – a call made when the opponent's king is threatened. "Chaktrang" is a formal term derived from the Sanskrit "Chaturanga," reflecting the game's Indian origins.

Unlike standard chess, Ouk Chaktrang often involves teams of players, adding to the excitement and social aspect of the game. It's commonly played in social settings like barbershops or men's cafes. The goal, however, remains the same: checkmate the opponent's king. The starting player is decided by mutual agreement, with the loser of the previous game typically going first in the next. Draws result in another agreement on who begins.

A second Cambodian chess game, Rek, is also noteworthy. Further details on Rek can be found in a separate resource.