What is Variant?

A Variant, in chess, refers to a game that is played with rules, objectives, or equipment differing from the traditional ones. Variants can include changes such as variations in the board size, the initial set-up of pieces, the number and nature of pieces, the rules concerning how pieces move or capture, the nature of the objective, and many other aspects. Some variants are historic ancestors of the traditional game, while others are modern inventions influenced by the game of chess.