GB2298144A - Three-dimensional chess - Google Patents

Abstract

Three-dimensional chess is played on an array of between two and eight 8x8 chequerboards with between one and four standard sets of chessment.

Description

This invention relates to the chess boardgame.

By adjusting the structural framework of the traditional chess game from a 2-dimcnsional chequered plane to either the game frame work described in figure 1 or alternatively, figure 2 game construction, a new 3-dimensional game framework can be crcatcd which allows the chess pieces within it more diversity in positional manocuvrability.

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION The game framework illustrated in figure 1 can be constructed by slacking eight 3dimensional chequered boards one upon the other. (The vertical planes in this structure are chequered). The alternative game framework illustrated in figure 2 can be crcated by stacking eight 3-dimensional chequered boards in parallel. (This parallel alignmcnl of the cheque red 3-dimensional boards produces lined vertical planes within the figure 2 structure).

For practical purposes the distinct levels of the chess game structures illustrated in figure 3 and figure 4 will have a space of approximately 6-8 inches between them. This is necessary to facilitate easy movement of the chess pieces within the particular levels.

The raw materials needed to construct the three dimensional chess game are the following: (i) 7-piece telescopic metal rod.

(ii) 8 chequered boards (standard chessboards).

(iii) Trapezoidal shaped rubber washers.

(iv) 32 chess pieces (same selection of pieces required in 2D traditional chcss).

OR (v) 64 chess pieces (two sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces) OR (vi) 96 chess pieces (three sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces) OR (vii) 128 chess pieces (four sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces).

Using the 7-piece telescopic metal rod as a central support column, the 8 chequered boards can be secured to the rod by using modified rawl plug type fittings. This is illustrated in the figures 3 and 4. (The planes are at equidistant spacings: i.e the distance between level 1 and 2 is the same as the distance between level 2 and level 3 and so on).

Figure 3 is the practical representation of the figure 1 chequered cube game framework.

Figure 4 is the practical game framework representation of the figure 2 lined cubed game framework.

Rules of 3-Dimensional Chess Since there are 8 levels in 3-dimensional chess as opposed to only 1 in 2-dimensional chess, the conventional chess configuration of the 32 chess pieces can be positioned on any one of the eight levels. For example the set of 32 chess pieces could be positioned on level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4, level 5, level 6, level 7 or level 8.

The chess pieces within the figure 1 chequered cube (or alternatively figure 2 lined cube) utilize (i) horizontal, (ii) vertical and (iii) inclined planes to manoeuvre. The rules of 2-D chess apply to any of the above mentioned planes:- this means that a particular chess piece (ie:- rook, knight, bishop, king, queen and pawn) will be constant in its movement specification whatever the plane chosen.

(ie:- bishops move diagonally, rooks move in straight lines, knights move in L shaped patterns, etc).

The naming svstem for 3-dimensional chess The levels within the cube game frameworks are numbered from 1 to 8 and each level has the conventional letter/number naming system associated with 2-dimensional chess. refer lo figures 3 and 4.

Tvpe of Games Piece movement in ordinary traditional chess is restricted to a horizontal plane. the 3dimensional game that I have devised not only encompasses piece movements in horizontal planes, it also permits the chess pieces to manoeuvre in vertical and inclined planes, thus creating a far more stimulating game with a greater degree of freedom for all the pieces involved.

The following games are arranged in an increasing difficulty level sequence, i.e. Beginner ... ...Extremely advanced.

Game 1 This game is designed for beginners.

The chess pieces traverse standard horizontal planes (as in 2-D chess) and in addition all the vertical planes, (a new 3-D feature) within the figures 1/2 structures. Vertical planes are divided into the following categories; (i) Numbered Verticals.

(ii) Lettered Verticals.

This game can be played with either one, two, three or four sets of the traditional chess pieces. When playing with more than one set of chess pieces (i.e. 2, 3 or 4), the posilioning of the sets can be on any one of the 8 levels of the game structure. For example, if playing with two sets, one set of the 32 chess pieces in the conventional chess configuration associated with 2-D chess can be positioned on level 4 and the other on level 8.

Alternatively, one set of the 32 chess pieces could be positioned on level 1 and the other set on level 6. There are many different ways of arranging two sets of chess pieces onto the 8 levels of the game structure. All these permutations are legitimate starting positions. (Refer to figures 37, 38 and 39 for a few examples of the double chess set up).

Similarly if playing with 3 or 4 sets of 32 chess pieces, the starting positions for these sets within the game framework are members of the set of the lotal number of ways of arranging either 3 or 4 sets of chess pieces within the 8 levels.

The following series of sketches illustrate all the vertical planes used in game 1 when the 32 chess pieces are positioned on level 1. (Assuming only one set of 32 chess pieces are being played with). refer to figures 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 16. Figure 36 displays the vertical planes used (in game 1) when a chess piece is positioned on a level other than 1 or 8 (i.e.

2, 3, 4 7). The rules of 2-D chess apply to both the horizontal and vertical planes mentioned above.

Game 2 This differs from game 1 by utilizing 45" inclined planes in conjunction with the 8 horizontal planes. (The 8 horizontal planes used are traditional 2-D chessboards). No vertical planes are allowed. Figures 17-34 illustrate the 45" inclined planes used by the various pieces (rook, knight, bishop, queen, king and pawn) when they are situated on level 1, (the 32 chess pieces are located at level 1), in the conventional 32 chess piece configuration.

As in game 1 the 32 chess pieces (i.e. one set of pieces) can be positioned on nay one ol the 8 levels of the game structures shown in figures 3 and 4.

This game can also be played with additional sets of 32 chess pieces (i.e. two three or four sets of 32 chess pieces).

As in game 1 if playing with two, three or four sets of 32 chess pieces there are numerous ways of arranging the sets within thee 8 levels of the figures 3 and 4 game frameworks. (I have described in game 1 the procedure of arranging the sets within the 8 levels - refer to game 1).

Figure 35 represents 2 of the 4 typical 45" inclined planes intersecting a chess piece located on a level other than 1 or 8. The piece has a choice of planes below the level as well as above which can be utilized for movement. This contrasts with level 1 which only has 45" inclined planes above to manoeuvre into. (The 45" inclined planes used relate to the figures 1 and 2 cube game frameworks:- the chess pieces within these structures utilize 45" inclined planes (relative to horizontal) for movement. The chess pieces move on these 45" inclined and horizontal planes in accordance with the laws governing 2-D chess.

Game 3 This variation uses the following planes; (i) 8 horizontal (8 standard chessboards).

(ii) Vertical. (All the vertical planes within the cubes).

(iii) Inclined at 450. (Played with either 1, 2, 3 or 4 sets of traditional 32 pieces).

The chess pieces traverse the above planes in accordance with the usual laws governing 2dimensional chess. (Basically game 3 combines the vertical planes used in game 1 with the 45" inclined planes in game 2 in association with the 8 horizontal chessboard planes).

Game 4 (Unlimited inclined planes). (Played with either 1, 2, 3 or 4 sets of traditional 32 chess pieces).

This game is an extension of game 3. It utilizes the following planes; (i) Vertical.

(ii) 8 Horizontal planes (8 chessboards).

(iii) Unlimited inclined planes.

Piece movements on these planes are in accordance with the rules of traditional 2-D chess.

Game 5 (Permutations of inclined planes) This game is a variation of game 4. Instead of unlimited inclined planes with the vertical and 8 horizontal planes, the chess pieces can utilize the various permutations of inclined planes in conjunction with the 8 horizontal and vertical planes.

(The rules of 2-D chess apply to all the planes described above). (This game can be played with either 1, 2, 3 or 4 sets of traditional 32 chess pieces).

Game 6 This game has been partially highlighted in games 1 and 2 where extra sets of chess pieces are added to the figures 3 and 4 game frameworks. I will now give the corral exposition and nomenclature for this game.

This game adds extra sets of 32 chess pieces to the existing 32 chess piece configuration.

"Double 3-D chess", adds 32 chess pieces (the same pieces in exactly the same position as traditional chess, but on a different level). Refer to figures 37/38/39. It can be played by either 2 or 4 players. If 2 people are playing each player is responsible for 32 chess pieces (i.e. One player plays with the two sets of white pieces and the other plays with the two sets of black pieces).In this game white would move first (i.c. the player playing with the white 32 chess pieces moves a white chess piece from one set of the 16 white chess pieces located on a particular level within the game framework), followed by black (i.e. the player playing with the black 32 chess pieces moves a black chess piece form one set of the 16 black chess pieces located on a particular level within the game framework), followed by white (a white chess piece from either one of the two sets of 16 chess pieces is moved) followed by black, (a black chess piece from either one of the two sets of 16 black chess pieces is moved), and so on until one of the 4 kings is check mated.

If 4 people are playing, each player is responsible for 16 chess pieces. The two people who are in possession of the white chess pieces pair up and then compete against the other pair who are playing with the black chess pieces. In this game white would move first (i.e one of the pair playing white moves one piece from his set of 16 chess pieces.

This movement would be a joint decision by the pair playing whilc), then black moves (i.e. one of the pair playing black moves one piece from his set of 16 chess pieces. this move would be a joint playing decision by the pair playing black), followed by white (again the pair playing white confer confidentially and move a chess piece from any one of the two sets of 16 white chess pieces in their possession), followed by black (again the playing black confer confidentially and move a chess piece from any one of the 2 sets of 16 black chess pieces in their possession), and so on until one of the 4 kings is checkmated.

"Triple 3-D chess", adds 32 chess pieces (the same 32 pieces used in traditional 2-D chess) to the double chess set up. Refer to figures 40/41/42 for a few examples of the triple chess set up.

Obviously there are numerous ways of arranging the 3 sets of 32 chess pieces within the 8 levels of the game framework, the examples I have listed previously are just a frw ways of setting up the triple chess game, all the other permutations of arranging the 3 sets of 32 chess pieces within the 8 levels should be taken for granted as legitimate starting positions which can be used. (In this case when I mention 3 sets of 32 chess pieces, the 32 chess pieces in each set consist of the 16 traditional white chess pieces and 16 traditional black chess pieces used in 2-D chess).

Each set of the 32 chess pieces is arranged in the conventional chess configuration associated with traditional 2-D chess on a level within the game framework. Refer to figures 40/41/42.

It must be noted that the "Double 3-D chess", which I described earlier relating to two sets of 32 chess pieces within the game framework also positions 32 chess pieces on a given level within the game structure.

These 32 chess pieces consist of the traditional, 16 white chess pieces and 16 black chess pieces used in the traditional 2-D chess game and are positioned in the conventional chess configuration used in the normal 2-D game.

"Triple 3-D chess", can be played by 2,3,4,5 or 6 players.

If 2 people are playing, one of the players controls the 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces and the other the 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces. White them moves one chess piece rrom one of the 3 sets in his/her possession, followed by black moving a black chess piece from one of the 3 sets in his/her possession, followed by white again who moves one of his/her chess pieces from any of the 3 sets of chess pieces in his/her possession, hollowed by black in a similar fashion and so on, in this alternating white, black movement procedure until one of the 6 kings is checkmated.

If 3 people are playing, one of the players competes against the other two. The solitary player either controls the 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces or 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces. If the player chooses the 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces the other two players will use the remaining 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces.

As before in the 2 player game, the player possessing white manoeuvre first (ic. moving one of the chess pieces from the 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces in his posscssion), followed by black, (ie:- the two players playing black confer confidentially and manoeuvre one piece from one of the 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces in their possession), followed by white and back to black in this alternating white, black movement procedure.

(The movement procedure is very similar to the 2 player game except obviously that three people are playing). The game ends when one of the 6 kings is mated.

If 4 people are playing, either one of the players competes against the other 3, or alternatively 2 players compete against the other two players.

When one player plays against 3 opponents, the solitary player utilizes the 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces, (or 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces) and the other 3 players play with the sets of 16 black chess pieces. The movement procedure is practically identical to the 3 player .outline. except that 3 people confer confidentially in the movement decision making process in contrast to two conferring in the 3 player game.

(White moves first, followed by black and so on in an alternating, black, white movement procedure until one of the 6 kings is checkmated).

If 2 people play against 2 people, then obviously, the 2 respective teams are either in charge of 3 sets of 16 white chess pieces or 3 sets of 16 black chess pieces. The teams confer amongst themselves and then proceed in the alternating white, black movement procedure already discussed in the previous descriptions in the 2 and 3 player versions of "3-D triple chess". (The game ends when 1 of the 6 kings is checkmated).

If 5 people play the "3-D triple chess", game there are two distinct ways of playing.

Either 2 people play against 3 people or 1 person competes against the other 4. The movement procedure is the same as the alternating white, black method already discussed in the previous 2, 3, 4 player games. (The game ends when 1 of the 6 kings is mated).

When 6 people play the "triple 3-D chess", game there are 3 different team formats which can be used. For example, either 5 people play against one, 4 play against two, or finally, 3 play against 3. The movement procedure is the same as the method already discussed in the previous 2, 3 or 4 player examples. (The game ends when 1 of the 6 kings is mated.

"Quadruple 3-D chess", adds 32 chess pieces to the "triple chcss", set up. Refer to figures 43/44/45 for a few examples of the "quadruple chess", layout. All the different permutations of arranging the 4 sets of 32 chess pieces within the game frameworks should be regarded as legitimate starting positions for the game. Obviously there are too many arrangements to mention or illustrate here but the examples I have displayed in figures 43/44/45 should be regarded as standard designs for "quadruple chess" formats.

(The sets of 32 chess pieces in this case consist of the traditional 16 white chess pieces and 16 black chess pieces used in the traditional 2-D chess game and are positioned in the conventional 2-D chess configuration on particular levels within the game frameworks illustrated in figures 3 and 4).

"Quadruple 3-D chess", can be played by 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 players. lf 2 people are playing, one of the players controls the 4 sets of 16 white chess pieces and the other the 4 sets of 16 black chess pieces.

White then moves one chess piece from one of the four sets in his/her possession, followed by black moving a black chess piece from one of the 4 sets in his/her possession, followed by white again who moves one of his/her chess pieces from any of the 4 sets of chess pieces in his/her possession followed by black in a similar fashion and so on in this alternating white, black movement procedure until one of the 8 kings is checkmated.

The 3 player game is comparable to the 3 player, "triple 3-D chess" game, except in this case the solitary player plays with either the 4 sets of 16 white chess pieces (or 4 sets of 16 black chess pieces). Using his/her chosen 4 sets of 16 chess pieces hc/she then competes against the other two players who are in possession of the remaining 4 sets of 16 black or white chess pieces.

(If the solitary player chooses the 4 sets of white 16 chess pieces the other 2 players use the 4 sets of 16 black chess pieces). The movement procedure is analogous identical to the two player version of the "triple 3-D chess", game. Refer to the "triple 3-D chess".

game kr 3 players for details of this movement procedure.

The 4, 5 and 6 player versions of "quadruple chess" are also analogous to the "triple chess" games involving 4, 5 or 6 players. (The only difference is 4 sets of 32 chess pieces are played with instead of the 3 utilized in "triple 3-D chess"). Refer to the "triple 3-D chess", game for 4, 5 and 6 players for details of the movement procedure used in "quadruple 3-D chess".

(The movement procedure in triple 3-D chess is equivalent to the movement procedure in "quadruple 3-D chess". i.e:- alternating white, black movement until one of the 8 kings is mated).

If 7 people are playing the "quadruple 3-D chess" game then either, one of the players competes against the other 6, two of the players compete against the other 5 or 3 of the players compete against the other 4. (The teams confer confidentially in the movement making process). The movement procedure is identical to the methods already described in the previous examples, (i.e:- white moves first, followed by black and so on in this alternating white, black movement procedure until one of the 8 kings is checkmated).

The respective teams discussed above are each in charge of 4 sets of 16 black or 4 sets of 16 white chess pieces. (The 16 white and 16 black chess pieces are the ones used in traditional 2-D chess).

If 8 people are playing the "quadruple 3-D chess", game then either, one of the players competes against the other 7, two of the players compete against the other 6, 3 compete against the other 5 or 4 compete against the other 4. The game then proceeds in the standard alternating white to black movement procedure already described in the previous examples.

Game 7. (8 horizontal planes & different permutations of inclined planes).

This game is an extension of game .2. Instead of the 8 horizontal planes used in conjunction with 45" inclined planes (ie. limited inclined planes), they are used in conjunction with all the different permutations of inclined planes. No vertical planes are utilized for piece movement in this game.

Game 8. (All the different permutations of inclined planes only, no vertical or horizontal planes are allowed for piece movement).

All the games described in the preceding passages (i.e.:- games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8) are designed to be played in the eight level game frameworks illustrated in figures 3 and 4.

Obviously if all eight levels are utilized the individual chess pieces have more freedom to manoeuvre and thus the games become more interesling. (Though it is not essential to play the games in 8 levels).

The maximum height in the figures 3 and 4 game frameworks corresponds to the cighth level. All the games described above (especially games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8) can be played in a game format which varies in height from two levels to 8 levels (i.c.:- the games can be played in 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 levels). I would advise the beginners to adjust the figures 3 and 4 game frameworks to either 2, 3 or 4 levels and then play 1. 2 .-., 8 within these new structures.

As the confidence of the player increases he/she can adjust the levels accordingly to finally play the games in 8 levels.

Games 7 and 8 can be played with either one, two, three, or 4 sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces. (Each particular set is positioned on a different level within figures. 3./4.) If playing the double chess version of games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 the height in levels of the figure .3./.4. game frameworks would vary from 2-8 inclusivc. (The minimum levels needed to play double chess is 2).

If playing the triple chess version of games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 the levels of the figure .3. and figure .4. game frameworks would vary from 3-8. (The minimum levels needled to play triple chess is 3).

If playing the quadruple chess version of games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 the levels of the figure 3./figure .4. game frameworks would vary from 4-8. (The minimum levels needed to play quadruple chess is 4).

I described earlier in game six the double, triple, and quadruple chess formats within the figure .3. or .4. game frameworks. The essential point to make here is that the double, triple and quadruple chess formats can be played with by using the rules of a particular game in conjunction with it. (the rules specified in games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 can all be applied). Pawns becoming queens.

In traditional 2-D chess a white pawn becomes a queen when it reaches any position on the 8 file. In the 3-D chess games that I have described a white pawn becomes a white queen when it reaches any position on the 8 plane.

Similarly, for the black chess pieces, in traditional 2-D chess a black pawn becomes a black queen when it reaches any position on the 1 file. In the 3-D chess games that I have described, a black pawn becomes a black queen when it reaches any position on the 1 plane.

Figure.1. - This sketch illustrates the chequered cube game framework. The chess pieces can play various games within this structure. (For practical rcasons it is casicr to play the various games I have described in the figure.3. game structure. The figure.3. and figure. 1. game structures should be perceived as being equivalent. The figurc.3.

illustration displays the practical version of the figure.1. game framework).

Figure.2. - This sketch illustrates a modified version of the game structure highlighted in figure.1. The 3-D chessboards in this case are alligned in parallel. (Parallel in this case mcans white squares are above whit squares and black squares of the chcssboards are above black squares).

This arrangement of the 8 chessboards produces black and while lined vertical planes.

The arrangement of the 8 chessboards in the figure. 1. example produces chequered vertical planes.

The figure.2. game framework should be used in conjunction with the figure.4.

illustration. The figure.4. illustration displays the practical representation of the figure.2. game framework. (Figure.2. and figure.4. represent the same game structure).

Figure.3. - This sketch illustrates the practical representation of figure. 1., (the chequered cube game format).

Figure.4. - This sketch illustrates the practical representation of figure.2., (the black and while lines cube game format).

Figure.5. - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by the while rooks at Al and H1 on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is located on level 1 in this example).

Vertical planes used bv white rook on Al (i) A PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Vertical planes used bv white rook on H1 (i) H PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Possible movements of white rook at Al level 1. Using Plane A. (Moving vertically upwards).

Level 1 Al to level 2 Al.

Level 1 Al to level 3 Al Level 1 Al to level 4 Al Level 1 Al to level 5 Al Level 1 Al lo level 6 Al Level 1 Al to level 7 Al Level 1 Al to level 8 Al Using Plane 1 (Same movements as Plane A in this case.

Possible movements of white rook at H1 level 1. Using H Plane (Moving vertically upwards).

Level 1 H1 to level 2 H1 Level 1 H1 to level 3 H1 Level 1 H1 to level 4 H1 Level 1 H1 to level 5 H1 Level 1 H1 to level 6 H1 Level 1 H1 to level 7 H1 Level 1 H1 lo level 8 H1 Using 1 plane. (Same movements as H plane in this particular case).

Figure.5. should be used in conjunction with figure.6. Figure.6. displays all the movements of figure.5. within the figure.3. game framework. In this example a single set of 32 chess pieces is utilized to illustrate the movement of chess pieces within vertical planes. It must be enthasized that if there are multiple sets of 32 chess pieces within the figure.3. or figure.4. game frameworks they would utilize vertical planes in a similar fashion.

Figure.6. - Sketch representing movements of the white rooks from their starting positions Al and H1 on level 1 in vertical planes within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure.7. - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by the white knights at B1 and G1 on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is located on level 1 in this cxample).

Vertical planes used bv white knight on B.1.

(i) B PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Vertical planes used bv white knight on G.1.

(i) G PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Possible movements of white knight at B1 level.l.

Using Plane B.

Level 1 B1 lo level 2 B3 Level 1 B1 lo level 3 B2 Using Plane 1.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 D1 Level 1 B1 to level 3 C1 Level 1 B1 to level 3 Al Possible movements of white knight at G.1 level 1.

Using plane G.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 G3 Level 1 G1 to level 3 G2 Using Plane 1.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 El Level 1 G1 lo level 3 F1 Level 1 G1 to level 3 H1 Figurc.7. should be used in conjunction with figure.8. Figure.8. displays all the movements of figure.7. within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure.8. - Sketch representing movements of the while knights from their starting positions B1 and G1 on level 1 in vertical planes within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure.9. - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by the white bishops al C1 and F1 on level 1.

Vertical planes used bv white bishop on C1 (level.l.) (i) C PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Vertical planes used bv white bishop on F1 levell.

(i) F PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Possible movements of white bishop at C1 level 1.

Using plane C. (Moving diagonally across this vertical C plane).

Level 1 C1 to level 2 C2 Level 1 C1 to level 3 C3 Level 1 C1 to level 4 C4 Level 1 C1 to level 5 C5 Level 1 C1 to level 6 C6 Level 1 C1 to level 7 C7 Level 1 C1 to level 8 C8 Using plane 1.

(i) (Moving diagonally to the left across 1 plane).

Level 1 C1 to level 2 B1 Level 1 C1 to level 3 Al (ii) Moving diagonally to the right across the 1 plane.

Level 1 C1 to level 2 D1 Level 1 C1 to level 3 El Level 1 C1 to level 4 F1 Level 1 C1 to level 5 G1 Level 1 C1 to level 6 H1 Possible movements of white bishop on F1 level 1.

Using plane F.

Level 1 F1 to level 2 F2 Level 1 F1 to level 3 F3 Level 1 F1 to level 4 F4 Level 1 F1 to level 5 F5 Level 1 F1 to level 6 F6 Level 1 F1 to level 7 F7 Level 1 F1 to level 8 F8 Using plane 1.

(i) (Moving diagonally to the right across 1 plane).

Level 1 F1 to level 2 G1 Level 1 F1 to level 3 H1 (ii) (Moving diagonally to the left across 1 plane).

Level 1 F1 to level 2 El Level 1 F1 to level 3 D1 Level 1 F1 to level 4 C1 Level 1 Fl to level 5 B1 Level 1 F1 to level 6 Al Figurc.9. should be used in conjunction with figure.l0.

Figure. 10. displays all the movements of figure.9. within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure. 10. - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white bishops from their starting positions C1 and F1 on level 1 in vertical planes within the figure.3. game framework.

(The traditional set of 32 chess pieces are positioned on level 1 in this cxamplc).

Figure.ll. - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by the white queen at El on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is located on level 1 in this example).

Vertical planes used bv white queen at El level 1.

(i) E PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Possible movements of white queen of El on level 1.

Using E Plane (i) Moving vertically up Level 1 El to level 2 El Level 1 El to level 3 El Level 1 El to level 4 El Level 1 El to level 5 El Level 1 El to level 6 El Level 1 El to level 7 El Level 1 El to level 8 El (ii) Moving diagonally across the E plane.

Level 1 El to level 2 E2 Level 1 El to level 3 E3 Level 1 El to level 4 E4 Level 1 El to level 5 ES Level 1 El to level 6 E6 Level 1 El to level 7 E7 Level 1 El to level 8 E8 Using 1 plane.

(i) Moving vertically up in 1 plane.

Level 1 El to level 2 El Level 1 El to level 3 El Level 1 El to level 4 El Level 1 El to level 5 El Level 1 El to level 6 El Level 1 El to level 7 El Level 1 El to level 8 El (ii) Moving diagonally (across the 1 plane) to the left.

Level 1 El to level 2 D1 Level 1 El to level 3 C1 Level 1 El to level 4 B1 Level 1 El to level 5 Al (iii) Moving diagonally to the right across the 1 plane.

(iii) Level 1 El to level 2 F1 Level 1 El to level 3 G1 Level 1 El to level 4 H1 Figure. 11. should be used in conjunction with figure. 12. Figure. 12. displays all the movements of figure.ll. within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure.12. - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white queen from its starting position El on level 1 in vertical planes within the figure.3. game framework.

Figure.l3. - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by the white king at D1 on level 1. (One set of the traditional 32 chess pieces are located on level 1).

Vertical planes used bv white king at D1 level 1.

(i) D PLANE (ii) 1 PLANE Possible movements of white king on D1 level 1 Using plane D.

(i) Level 1 D1 to level 2 D1. (Moving vertically up).

(ii) Level 1 D1 to level 2 D2. (Moving diagonally one position).

Using 1 plane Level 1 D1 to level 2 D1. (Moving vertically up one position).

Level 1 D1 to level 2 C1. (Moving one square diagonally to the left).

Level 1 D1 to level 2 El. (Moving one position diagonally lo right).

Figure 13 should be used in conjunction with figure 14. Figure 14 displays all the movements of figure 13 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 14 - This sketch illustrates all the movements of the white king from its starting position D1 on level 1 in vertical planes within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 15 - This sketch illustrates the vertical planes used by a white pawn at D2 on level 1. (The 32 chess piece configuration is located on level 1). Possible movements of white pawn at D2 level 1 Using plane D.

Level 1 D2 to level 2 D2. Level 1 D2 to level 3 D2.

Musing plane 2 Level 1 D2 to level 2 D2. Level 1 D2 to level 3 D2.

Figure 15 should be used in conjunction with figure 16. Figure 16 displays all the movements of figure 15 within the figure 3 game structure.

Figure 16 - This sketch illustrates the movements of a white pawn from its starting position D2 on level one in vertical planes within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 17 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the while rook at H1 on level 1. (As in the vertical plane example the 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1). 45" inclined planes used bv white rook on H1 level 1.

(i) H plane at 450 to left.

(ii) 1 plane tilted at 450 inclined planes are shears of 45" of the 1 and H plancs).

Possible movements of white rook at H1 level 1. Using H plane al 450 to left.

Level 1 H1 to level 2 C1.

Level 1 H1 to level 3 F1.

Level 1 H1 to level 4 El.

Level 1 H1 to level 5 D1.

Level 1 H1 to level 6 C1.

Level 1 H1 to level 7 B1.

Level 1 H1 to level 8 Al.

Using 1 plane at 45" Level 1 H1 to level 2 H2.

Level 1 H1 to level 3 H3.

Level 1 H1 to level 4 H4.

Level 1 H1 to level 5 H5.

Level 1 H1 to level 6 H6.

Level 1 H1 ti level 7 H7.

Level 1 H1 to level 8 H8.

The 45" inclined planes used are either chequered or lined depending on the game framework chosen. The figure 3 game framework uses lined 45" inclined planes and the figure 4 game structure uses chequered 45" inclined planes.

Figure 17 should be used in conjunction with figure 18. Figure 18 displays all the movements in figure 17 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 18 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the while rook from ils starting position H1 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. (This example utilizes one set of traditional 32 chess pieces positioned on level 1).

Figure 19 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the white knight at Gl on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1).

45 inclined planes used bv white knight on G1 Level 1 (i) G plane at 450 to left.

(ii) G plane at 45 to left.

(iii) 1 plane at 450 Technically the 45 inclined planes are shears of 45 of the 1 and G planes).

Possible movements of white knight at G1 level 1. Using G plane at 450 to left Level 1 G1 to level 2 D1.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 F3.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 H3.

Level 1 G1 to level 3 E2.

Level 1 G1 to level 4 F1.

Using G plane at 450 to right Level 1 G1 to level 2 H3.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 F3.

Using 1 plane at 45 Level 1 G1 to level 2 G4.

Level 1 G1 to level 2 E2.

Level 1 G1 to level 3 F3.

Level 1 G1 to level 3 H3.

Level 1 G1 to level 4 G2.

Figure 19 should be used in conjunction with figure 20. Figure 20 displays all the movements in figure 19 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 20 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white knight from its starting position G1 on level 1 in 45 inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 21 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined lined planes used by the white bishop at F1 on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example).

45 inclined planes used bv white bishop on F1 level 1 (i) F plane al 450 to left.

(ii) F plane at 450 to right.

(iii) 1 plane at 450.

(Technically the 45 inclined planes are, in mathematical terminology, shears of 45 of the 1 and F planes).

Possible movements of white bishop at F1 level 1. Using F plane at 450 to left Level 1 F1 to level 2 E2.

Level 1 Fl to level 3 D3.

Level 1 F1 to level 4 C4.

Level 1 F1 to level 5 B5.

Level 1 F1 to level 6 A6.

Using F plane at 450 to right Level 1 F1 to level 2 G2.

Level 1 F1 to level 3 H3.

Using 1 plane at 450 (Same movements as the F inclined 45 inclined planes).

(i) Level 1 Fl to level 2 E2.

Level 1 F1 to level 3 D3.

Level 1 F1 to level 4 C4.

Level 1 F1 to level 5 B5.

Level 1 F1 to level 6 A6.

(ii) Level 1 F1 to level 2 G2.

Level 1 F1 to level 3 H3.

The inclined planes illustrated are lined meaning that the 32 chess pieces are playing within the figure 3 game structure.

Figure 21 should be used in conjunction with figure 22. Figure 22 displays all the movements in figure 21 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 22 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white bishop from its starting position F1 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. (The movements are indicated by lined shading in the sketch).

Figure 23 - This sketch illustrated the 45" inclined planes used by the white queen at El on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example).

45" inclined planes used bv white queen on El level 1 (i) E PLANE AT 45" TO LEFT.

(ii) E PLANE AT 45" TO RIGHT.

(iii) 1 PLANE AT 45".

(Technically the 45" inclined planes are shears of 45" of the 1 and E planes).

Possible movements of white queen at El level 1. Using E plane at 45" to left (i) Acting as rook across E plane at 450 to left.

Level 1 El to level 2 D1.

Level 1 El to level 3 C1.

Level 1 El to level 4 B1.

Level 1 El to level 5 Al.

(ii) Moving diagonally across E plane at 450 to left (ie- acting like bishop).

Level 1 El to level 2 D2.

Level 1 El to level 3 C3.

Level 1 El to level 4 B4.

Level 1 El to level 5 A5.

Using E plane at 450 to right (i) Level 1 El to level 2 F1.

Level 1 El to level 3 G1.

Level 1 El to level 4 H1.

(Acting as rook across E plane at 45" to right) (ii) Moving diagonally across E plane at 450 to right.

Level 1 El to level 2 F2.

Level 1 El to level 3 G3.

Level 1 El to level 4 H4.

Using 1 plane at 450 (i) Level 1 El to level 2 D2.

Level 1 El to level 3 C3.

Level 1 El to level 4 B4.

Level 1 El to level 5 A5.

(Moving diagonally to the left across the 1 plane at 450).

(ii) Level 1 El to level 2 F2.

Level 1 El to level 3 G3.

Level 1 El to level 4 H4.

(Moving diagonally to the right across the 1 plane at 45 ).

(iii) Level 1 El to level 2 E2.

Level 1 El to level 3 E3.

Level 1 El to level 4 E4.

Level 1 El to level 5 E5.

Level 1 El to level 6 E6.

Level 1 El to level 7 E7.

Level 1 El to level 8 E8.

(Acting as rook across the 1 plane at 450).

Figure 23 should be used in conjunction with figure 24.

Figure 24 displays all the movements in figure 23 within the figure 3 gamework.

Figure 24 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white queen from ils starting position El on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 gamework. (The traditional 32 chess pieces are positioned on level 1 in this example).

Figure 25 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the while king at Dl on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration in this example is positioned on level 1).

45 inclined planes used bv white king on D1 level 1 (i) D plane at 450 to left.

(ii) D plane at 450 to right.

(iii) 1 plane at 45".

(Technically the 45 inclined planes are shears of 45 of the 1 and D plancs).

Possible movements of white king at D1 level 1. Using D plane at 45 to left Level 1 D1 to level 2 C1.

Level 1 D1 to level 2 C2.

Using D plane at 45 to right Level 1 D1 to level 2 El.

Level 1 D1 to level 2 E2.

Using 1 plane at 450 Level 1 D1 to level 2 C2.

Level 1 D1 to level 2 D2.

Level 1 D1 to level 2 E2.

Figure 25 should be used in conjunction with figure 26.

Figure 26 displays all the movements in figure 25 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 26 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white king from its starting position D1 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. (The movements are indicated by lined shading).

Figure 27 - This sketch illustrates the 45 inclined planes used by the white bishop at Cl on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example).

45 inclined planes used bv white bishop on C1 level 1 (i) C plane at 450 to left.

(ii) C plane at 450 to right.

(iii) 1 plane at 450.

Possible movements of white bishops at C1 level 1 Using C plane at 45 to left Level 1 C1 to level 2 B2.

Level 1 C1 to level 3 A3.

Using C plane at 450 to right Level 1 C1 to level 2 D2.

Level 1 C1 to level 3 E3.

Level 1 C1 to level 4 F4.

Level 1 C1 to level 5 G5.

Level 1 C1 to level 6 H6.

Using 1 plane at 450. (Same movements as C plane at 45 to left and right. See C plane at 45 to left and right for details of these movements.

Figure 27 - should be used in conjunction with figure 28. Figure 28 displays all the movements of figure 27 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 28 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white bishop at C1 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the Figure 3 game framework. The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example.

The movements are indicated by hatched shading.

Figure 29 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the white knight at Bl on level 1.

The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example.

45 inclined planes used bv white knight on B1 level 1 (i) B plane at 450 to right.

(ii) B plane al 450 to right.

(iii) 1 plane at 45".

(Technically the 45" inclined planes are shears of 45" of the 1 and B plancs).

Possible movements of white knight at B1 level 1 Using B plane at 45" to left Level 1 B1 to level 2 A3.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 C3.

Using B plane at 450 to right Level 1 B1 to level 3 D2.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 C3.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 A3.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 B1.

Level 1 B1 to level 4 C1.

Using 1 plane at 45" Level 1 B1 to level 3 A3.

Level 1 B1 to level 3 C3.

Level 1 B1 to level 2 D2.

Level 1 B1 to level 4 B2.

Level 1 B1 lo level 2 B4.

Figure 29 should be used in conjunction with figure 30. Figure 30 displays all the movements of figure 29 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 30 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white knight from ils starting position at B1 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this example. The movements are indicated by hatched shading).

Figure 31 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the white rook at Al on level 1. (The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1 in this cxample).

Possible movements of white rook at Al level 1 Using A plane at 450 to right Level 1 Al to level 2 B1.

Level 1 Al lo level 3 C1.

Level 1 Al to level 4 D1.

Level 1 Al to level 5 El.

Level 1 Al to level 6 F1.

Level 1 Al to level 7 G1.

Level 1 Al to level 8 H1.

Using 1 plane at 450 Level 1 Al to level 2 A2.

Level 1 Al to level 3 A3.

Level 1 Al to level 4 A4.

Level 1 Al to level 5 A5.

Level 1 Al to level 6 A6.

Level 1 Al to level 7 A7.

Level 1 Al to level 8 A8.

Figure 31 should be used in conjunction with figure 32. Figure 3 displays all the movements of figure 31 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 32 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white rook from ils starting position Al on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. The traditional 32 chess pieces of 2-D chess are positioned on level 1 in this example. The movements are indicated by hatched shading in the sketch.

Figure 33 - This sketch illustrates the 45" inclined planes used by the white pawn at D2 on level 1.

The traditional 32 chess piece configuration is positioned on level 1.

45" inclined planes used by white pawn at D2 level 1 (i) D plane at 450 to left.

(ii) D plane at 450 to right.

(iii) 2 plane at 450.

Possible movements of white pawn at D2 level 1 Using D plane at 450 to left Level 1 D2 to level 2 C2.

Level 1 D2 to level 3 B2.

Using D plane at 45" to right Level 1 D2 to E2 level 2.

Level 1 D2 lo level 3 F2.

Using 2 plane at 450 Level 1 D2 to D3 level 2.

Level 1 D2 to D4 level 3.

Figure 33 should be used in conjunction with figure 34. Figure 3 displays all the movements of figure 33 within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 34 - This sketch illustrates the movements of the white pawn from its starting position D2 on level 1 in 45" inclined planes within the figure 3 game framework. The traditional 32 chess pieces are located on level 1 in this example. The movements are indicated by hatched shading in the sketch.

Figure 35 - This sketch illustrates the two of the 4 45" inclined D planes used by a piece lie:- queen, king, bishop, knight, rook or pawn) on level 4 D4. The horizontal plane (level 4) in this sketch represents a standard 2-D traditional chcssboard.

Figure 36 - This sketch illustrates the two vertical planes used by a chess piece (queen.

king, bishop, knight, rook and pawn) on level 4 D4. This example is supposed to highlight the general vertical planes intersecting a chess piece in the middle levels of the game structure.

Figures 37/38/39 - These sketches illustrate the double chess format. Two sets of traditional 32 chess pieces are positioned within the figure 3 game structure.

Figures 40/41/42 - These sketches illustrate the triple chess format. Three sets of traditional 32 chess pieces are positioned within the figure 3 game structure.

Figures 43/44/45 - These sketches illustrate the quadruple chess format. Four sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces are positioned within the figure 3 game framework.

Figure 46 - This sketch illustrates the reduced level game framework. In this example only two levels are used. The chess pieces positioned on level 1 (could equally be level 2) are subject to the rules of the particular game being played. (For example if game 1 is played in this structure then the rules of game 1 apply to all the chess pieces within the game structure).

All the games previously described (ie:- games 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (double chess), 7 and X) can be played within this reduced structure.

Figure 47 - This sketch shows the figure 3 game framework reduced in size from 8 levels to 3 levels. The chess pieces (either one, two or three sets of 32 chess pieces) can be positioned on any of the 3 levels. In this example I have chosen to position one set of 32 chess pieces on level two. All the games with their specific rules which I described earlier can be played in this reduced game framework.

Figure 48 - This sketch shows the figure 3 game framework reduced in size from 8 levels to 4 levels. The chess pieces (either one, two, three or four sets of traditional 32 chess pieces) can be positioned on any of the 4 levels. In this example 1 have chosen to position one set of the traditional 32 chess pieces on level 3 in the conventional traditional configuration associated with 2-D chess.

All the games with their specific rules which I described earlier can be played in this reduced game framework.

Figure 49 - This sketch shows the figure 3 game framework reduced in size from 8 levels to 5 levels.

The chess pieces (either one, two, three or 4 sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces) can be positioned on any of the five levels. In this example I have chosen to position one set of the 32 chess pieces on level 4. This choice is entirely random, I could equally have positioned the one set of 32 chess pieces on level 1, 2, 3 or 5.

Figure 50 - This sketch shows the figure 3 game framework reduced in size from 8 levels to 6 levels. The chess pieces (either one, two, three or four sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces) can be positioned on any of the six levels. In this example I have chosen to position one set of the 32 chess pieces on level 3. This choice is entirely random, I could cqually have positioned the one set of 32 chess pieces on level 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6.

Figure 51 - This sketch shows the figure 3 game framework reduced in size from X levels lo 7 levels. The chess pieces (either one, two, three or four sets of the traditional 32 chess pieces) can be positioned on any of the 7 levels. In this example I have chosen lo position one set of the 32 chess pieces on level 6. This choice is entirely random, I could equally have positioned the one set of 32 chess pieces on level 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7.

Claims (6)

1. This game, although using aspects of traditional 2-D chess, is entirely unique because it utilizes a different game structure, the 3-dimensional 8x8x8 cube, (refer to figures 1 and 2). This game structure, comprising of a central telescopic rod, to which chessboard planes are secured via rawl-plug type compression fittings, creates an environment in which a variety of new and distinct games can be played.

2. The 3-dimensional chess game as claimed in claim 1, can, depending on the game being played, be modified accordingly to the 8x8x7 (figure 51), 8x8x6 (figure SO), 8x8x5 (figure 49), 8x8x84 (figure 48), 8x8x3 (figure 47) and 8x8x2 (figure 46) game structures.

therein providing new formats for the chess games to be played.

3. The 3-D chess game as claimed in Claim 1 and Claim 2 can utilize 1-4 sets or the traditional 32 chess pieces, as highlighted in the double, triple and quadruple games or game 6 in the description, in contrast to only one set used in 2-D chess.

4. The 3-D chess game as claimed in any preceding claim can be played by multiple players (ranging from 2 to 8) as described in detail in game 6 in the description, in contract to only 2 players in traditional 2-D chess.

5. The 3-D chess game as claimed in any preceding claim uses extra planes for chess piece movement. Standard traditional 2-D chess uses a horizontal plane for chess piece movement, whereas the game structures in figures 1 and 2 permit the chess pieces to move in additional vertical and inclined planes as well as the horizontal planes.

6. The 3-D chess game as claimed in any preceding claim allows the single or multiple set(s) of the conventional 32 chess pieces the flexibility to be positioned, (from the starting posilion), on any level within the figures 1 and 2 game frameworks. This is discussed in detail in game 1 of the description.