A Russian 10x10 variant featuring an additional leaping piece - the Bear!
Bear Chess was created in the 80s and went on to be popular in Central Russia during this period. The game features an additional piece, the Bear, from which the variant takes its name.The Bear Chess
Moves of the Pieces
Pawns can advance up to three squares on their first movement.
Bear
Moves as a Knight, plus as a Bishop or Rook for 2 squares only.
The Bear's legal moves are demonstrated on this practice board.
Board is interactive - make a move
Pawn Promotion
Pawns can also promote to a Bear.
Pawns promote as normal but also can promote to the Bear.
Board is interactive - make a move
Castling
The King moves 3 squares for queenside castling, and 2 squares for kingside.
Castling queenside and kingside in Bear Chess
Board is interactive - make a move
In Bear Chess
En Passant captures are valid on both squares during a move 3 square advance.