description Oblong Chess Overview
Oblong Chess is a historical form of shatranj, the predecessor of modern chess, described in medieval Islamic sources. It uses an elongated board of four by sixteen squares, with pieces arranged in a nonstandard setup; in the dice-playing form, the number rolled determines which piece type must move. The game is chiefly relevant to readers studying early chess history, Islamic game traditions, and the development of chess variants on boards other than the familiar eight-by-eight grid. [Encyclopaedia Iranica](https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/chess-a-board-game/?generate_pdf=1)
help Oblong Chess FAQ
How good is Oblong Chess?
Oblong Chess scores 4.55/10 (Poor) on Lunoo, making it rated in the Chess Variant category.
What are the best alternatives to Oblong Chess?
See our alternatives page for Oblong Chess for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: Chaturanga, Correspondence Chess, Chu Shogi.
How does Oblong Chess compare to Chaturanga?
See our detailed comparison of Oblong Chess vs Chaturanga with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.
Is Oblong Chess worth it in 2026?
With a score of 4.55/10, Oblong Chess is a solid option in Chess Variant. See all Chess Variant ranked.
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