Introduction

Chinese chess, called Xiangqi, is similar to the western chess and they are both derived from the Indian board game called Chaturanga.

The game is played by two players (Red against the Black/Green). Players move one of their own pieces at a time in turns. Red always begins.

Players can capture the opponents pieces by occupying the same position on the board. Captured pieces are removed from the board and they cannot be played anymore.

The Goal

The goal in Chinese chess is to checkmate or stalemate the opponent's king.

Checkmate means that the king is under attack (i.e. being checked = about to be captured) and it cannot be moved anywhere to avoid being captured. Also, no other piece can be used to protect the king.

Stalemate means that the king is not under attack but no move can be made to avoid the king being captured.