In 1995 I Invented a chess variant called Nuclear Chess, or Dead Square. Recently this variant has become very popular, and is played in
coffee houses and street chess throughout the Pacific NorthWest, especialy Portland Oregon.
A brief synopsis follows, for deeper investigation visit: The Dead Square Homepage.
When a capture is made, both pieces die. Both pieces are left on that
same square, indicating that
this is a Dead Square. All pieces on adjacent squares are
removed from play.
Any threatened piece Adjacent to the King, constitutes check.
There is No en passant.
The King cannot capture (he would die in the blast).
The game of Nuclear Chess has become quite popular in Portland
Oregon, where I live, and
from what I've heard, in Japan also. I am trying to get this game
recognized as it is challenging and fun. Since it is relatively new,
there is much to be explored in this variation.
Game play tends to be highly aggressive, and it is a great way to improve
ones Tactical Prowess. Have fun, and enjoy.