In Gorgona Chess the objective is checkmate. Pieces move as in orthodox chess, with the exception of the additional piece, the "Gorgona", which moves like a queen, but cannot capture. Instead it paralyzes any enemy piece within its range. The pawns move as in orthodox chess, inclusive of the initial double-step. The pawn can also make an initial triple-step. 'En passant' can occur if the the pawn moves two or three steps and passes a square threatened by an enemy pawn. Castling exists, but the King jumps three squares instead of two. As usual, the Rook ends up beside the King. Promotion rules are the same as in orthodox chess, with the addition of the Gorgona.

Another variant, Gorgon Chess, differs from Gorgona Chess only in that the paralyzing piece (here called Gorgon) can also capture and check like a queen. Gorgona Chess, and Gorgon Chess, were invented by V. R. Parton in 1970 and 1973, respectively.