Pioneering stage

Chinese Chess is very much at a pioneering stage in the West, but some progress is being made in bringing it to the attention of non-Chinese players. In the last few years some books and magazines in English have been published, and a few small groups have sprung up, not only in the UK but also in Germany, Italy, France, Holland, Finland, and the USA. Germany probably has the highest number of western players at present (including Robert Hubner, a grandmaster in the western game).

In the UK, activity has centred on the London area, with occasional one-day and weekend tournaments. But tournaments have also been held in Hastings and a Chinese Chess Weekis held in Devon some years. Postal or Internet play (or play against computer programs) are further options.

The rules of Chinese Chess are given overfleaf, followed by two sample games which demonstrate the moves of the pieces, and give a flavour of how the game is played. If these sample games appear rather baffling at first, do not worry. It does take a little time to adjust to Chinese Chess (the cannon being the hardest piece to get used to), but if you can play Western Chess you will certainly be able to play Chinese Chess too.


~ above are excerpts of an excellentl leaflet 'Chinese Chess Explained' by Malcolm Horne, thank you ~