About This Chinese Chess Set
Welcome to our free, virtual Chinese Chess set. Also known as Xiangqi (象棋), this strategy board game represents a battle between two armies, with the object of capturing the enemy's General (King).
Unlike a physical Chinese chess set made of wood or plastic, this digital version allows you to practice anytime without setting up the board. It accurately replicates the standard board layout, including the "River" (Chu River and Han Border) and the "Palace."
Pieces in a Xiangqi Set
A standard Chinese chess set consists of 32 pieces, 16 for each side (Red and Black). Understanding these pieces is key to mastering the game:
- General (Shuài/Jiàng): The most important piece. It cannot leave the Palace.
- Advisor (Shi): Guards the General, moving diagonally within the Palace.
- Elephant (Xiàng): A defensive piece that moves diagonally but cannot cross the River.
- Horse (Mǎ): Moves similarly to a Knight in Western chess but can be blocked by "hobbling legs."
- Chariot (Jū): The strongest piece in the set, moving horizontally or vertically.
- Cannon (Pào): Moves like a Chariot but must jump over another piece to capture.
- Soldier (Bīng/Zú): Moves forward one step. After crossing the river, it can also move sideways.