A variant of Checkers for up to four players, American Checkers was published in time for the USA's bicentennial year of 1976 and features the colors red, white, and blue prominently. It is played on a 13x13 grid of checkered squares, with six squares in a triangular pattern removed from each corner. Occupying the center of the board are four large square safe zones where pieces may move and not be captured. Nine pieces per player are used, in red, white, blue and gold, with their starting positions marked on two rows of squares close to each side of the board. The game may be played individually or in partnership, and is essentially the same as Checkers but for the extra players and safe zones. Capture is compulsory when not in the safe zones. Promotion occurs by reaching the opposite end of the board. Last player with pieces remaining wins the game.