xiangqi
Xiangqi (Chinese: 象棋 Xiàngqí) is a Chinese game in the chess family which is very popular with Chinese everywhere. In English it is usually called "Chinese Chess."
The qi element is common to the two names xiangqi and weiqi, the Chinese name for go.
Jangki is the Korean version, played with the same equipment but a somewhat different game.
dej2 et al: Xiangqi or the "Elephant Game" is very similar to European Chess. Each side has the following pieces:
- 5 Pawns which can only move one space forward until they cross the "river" which divides the far and near side of the board. After that they can move one space sideways or one space forward.
- 2 Chariots that move and capture like rooks.
- 2 Elephants that move somewhat like bishops, but are limited to 2-space diagonal moves. They can not cross the river or jump.
- 2 Horses that move one space horizontally/vertically and one space diagonally like knights, but unlike knights they can't jump.
- a General/King that moves one space horizontal or vertical and must stay in a 3x3 bounded area called the "palace."
- 2 guards that only move one space diagonally and must stay in the palace.
- 2 Cannons that move like rooks but which can only capture a piece by jumping over another piece called a mount. (It does not matter if the mount is your own piece or your opponent's.)
In addition, the Generals/Kings cannot move in direct sight of each other. There must be a piece blocking the view if the two generals are to move onto the same column.
If you would like to try your hand at XiangQi it can be played at this site: here
Also see this excellent description.