runagate wrote:
...So does this variant already exist?...
Not that I know of. Some variants allow other pieces to be introduced later in the game, after some squares in the 1st rank have been cleared. It's a way to add more pieces to the board, while keeping the board the same size. But your variant is a new idea as far as I know.
Someone here might know if this has already been thought of. Please let me know, if so.
1. Starting position is only the two kings are on the board, in their normal starting positions.
2. Pieces and pawns can be moved onto the board in their standard positions by each player in turn as their move as an alternative to moving a man on the board.
3. Pieces and pawns cannot be placed on the board if their square is occupied by their own colour, but can be placed with a capture if an opponent's man is on their square.
So does this variant already exist? Is it playable? What are the best strategies?