Abstract: The present invention relates to a strategy game to enhance decision-making skills and memorization. In addition to the basics of traditional chess, the invention expands upon traditional chess rules by comprising some or all pieces being concealed within housing shells, except for the King, so that players do not have full disclosure of their opponent's pieces and must identify and memorize the opponent's game pieces from the movement made during the game. An essential feature at the discretion of the participant is to use at least one “hold and secure” placeholder on a square that allows a player to “hold and secure” up to two, or more, squares in a match upon capturing an opponent's piece on that square. Also, a method for training that comprises phases including, but not limited to, game pieces being concealed within housing shells, a “hold and secure” feature, and some or all pieces starting in non-traditional chess starting positions.

Abstract: A chess variant strategy game enhancing decision-making skills and memorization comprises most pieces being concealed within housing shells, except for the King, so that players must identify and memorize the opponent's game pieces from their movements. The use of at least one “hold and secure” placeholder on a square allows a player to “hold and secure” squares upon capturing an opponent's piece on that square and more realistically emulates battle situations. A method for training comprising plural training phases, including increasingly complex rules variations, all of which have game pieces concealed within housing shells and the “hold and secure” feature, and some or all pieces starting in non-traditional chess starting positions. The phases are customizable with different variations and may include time constraints, variable piece starting positions and alternative goals, as well as other features that alter the conditions and parameters of play.