sillaks

Sillaks are a type of ancient chess variant that originated in the Middle East and South Asia. The game is also known as Shatranj or Sittarnj, and its history dates back to the 6th century AD.

Sillaks differ from modern chess in several key ways. The most notable difference is the use of a circular board with 12 squares, rather than the traditional 64-square board. The objective of the game remains the same: to checkmate the opponent's king. However, the pieces and their movements vary significantly from modern chess.

In silks, the pieces include the king, queen, rook, bishop, and an additional piece called the war elephant, which is able to move multiple squares in a single turn. The game also features a pasha or prime piece that is often referred to as the 'long range piece' which can potentially cover 5 squares, depending on the square it is initially positioned on. Pawns in the game have multiple possible movements, making the game more dynamic and complex compared to modern chess.

Sillaks was played extensively across ancient civilizations including ancient Persia and Arab empires. The game was introduced to Europe through trade and cultural exchange in the Middle Ages. Despite its influential presence in chess history, the game has largely been forgotten or overshadowed by other chess variants. However its influence can still be seen in modern games and the pieces of Sittarnj have evolved over time and are still recognized today as core chess pieces and as precursors for subsequent forms and variations on the classic 64 square board that the game is often associated.