Abstract: A reduced-complexity, chess-like game uses ten pieces on a smaller square board without pawns for expedited play. Each player has a King (K), Queen (Q), Bishop (B), Knight (Kn), and Rook (R). Movement of the pieces is essentially the same as in traditional chess with a few minor exceptions. The object of the game is to capture the opponent's King, at which time the King is ransomed, and the game is over. Four different set-up procedures are disclosed, ranging from two static setups (Joust and Royal Court) to an intermediate version (Field) to blind setup (Assault). As an option, each game includes five tokens or coins called crowns. These may be used when players agree to do so. At the start of a game, each player places a crown in the center square. At the end of the game, the losing player's King is ransomed with the wagered crown coin. The object is to win all the crown coins. The player who challenges another always gets the first move except in Assault.