Shogi

Shogi, often referred to as Japanese chess, is a two-player strategy board game that originated in Japan. It is played on a 9×9 board with pieces that represent various military units. Each player commands a set of 20 pieces, including a king, gold generals, silver generals, knights, lances, bishops, rooks, and pawns. One of the distinctive features of shogi is the ability to promote pieces upon reaching the opponent’s territory, enhancing their movement capabilities.

Additionally, captured pieces can be returned to the board under the captor’s control, allowing for dynamic gameplay and strategy variations. The objective of the game is to checkmate the opponent’s king while protecting one’s own king from a similar fate. Shogi is known for its deep strategic elements, and it has a rich history with a dedicated community of players, from casual enthusiasts to professional competitors. It is also recognized for its cultural significance in Japan, often incorporating traditional aesthetics and etiquette in its play.