Xiangqi Online: Master the Art of Chinese Chess
Step into the world of ancient Eastern strategy with Xiangqi, popularly known as Chinese Chess. One of the most played board games in the world, Xiangqi represents a battle between two armies aiming to capture the enemy General. With unique pieces like Cannons and Elephants, it offers a tactical depth that differs significantly from Western Chess.
What is Xiangqi?
Xiangqi is a two-player strategy game that originated in China. The game is played on a grid of $9 \times 10$ lines. Unlike Western Chess, pieces are placed on the intersections (points) rather than inside the squares. The board is divided by a "River" in the middle and features a "Palace" on each side, which restricts the movement of the General and his Advisors.
How to Play Xiangqi Online
Our platform brings this traditional experience to your browser with high-quality graphics and intuitive controls. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can start a match instantly.
Understanding the Unique Pieces
Each piece in Xiangqi has specific movement rules that define the game’s unique flow:
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The General (King): Stays within the Palace and cannot move diagonally. Generals cannot "see" each other across the board without a piece in between.
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The Chariot (Rook): Moves exactly like a Rook in Western Chess—any distance horizontally or vertically.
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The Cannon: Moves like a Chariot but can only capture an enemy piece by jumping over exactly one intervening piece (the "screen").
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The Elephant (Minister): Moves exactly two points diagonally but cannot cross the River. It is a purely defensive piece.
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The Horse (Knight): Moves similarly to a Knight but can be blocked by a piece placed on the first point of its path (the "limp leg" rule).
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The Advisor (Guard): Stays within the Palace and moves one point diagonally.
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The Soldier (Pawn): Moves one point forward. Once it crosses the River, it can also move horizontally.
Objective: Checkmate the General
Just like in Western Chess, the goal is to Checkmate the opponent's General. However, in Xiangqi, you can also win by Stalemate—if your opponent has no legal moves, you win the game.
Essential Xiangqi Strategies for Success
To improve your win rate, you must understand the interaction between the different units:
1. Utilize the Cannon Effectively
The Cannon is the most unique element of Xiangqi. In the early game, it is extremely powerful for attacking. Always look for "screens" (your own or your opponent's pieces) to launch a surprise attack on the enemy's backline.
2. Control the River Crossing
The River is a major tactical boundary. Moving your Horses and Soldiers across the River early can put immense pressure on your opponent. Conversely, ensure your Elephants are positioned to defend your side of the bank.
3. Open the Chariot Early
The Chariot is the most powerful piece on the board due to its mobility. Professional players usually prioritize "opening" their Chariots (moving them to open lines) within the first few moves to control the board's main files.
Why Play Xiangqi on Our Website?
We provide a world-class environment for enthusiasts of traditional board games:
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Smart AI Difficulty: Practice against an AI that scales from "Novice" to "Master."
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Traditional & Modern Skins: Choose between classic wooden pieces with Chinese characters or stylized modern icons.
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No Download Required: Play directly in your browser on PC, Mac, or Mobile.
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Global Multiplayer: Challenge players from around the world and climb the Xiangqi rankings.
Are you ready to lead your army to victory? Place your first piece and experience the depth of Xiangqi today!