Chinese Chess, also known as Xiangqi, is a popular game in China that has been played for centuries. It's a strategic board game that demands problem solving, patience and expertise. While the game is primarily played in Asia, it has been growing in popularity around the world due to its demanding nature and elegant stratagem.
Game Features：
1.[Board Structure] Unlike other variations of chess, Chinese Chess is played on a 10x9 grid. This grid is divided by a "river" that creates two territories. Certain pieces have distinct rules related to crossing this river, adding a layer of complexity to the strategies employed.
2.[Piece Movement] The movement of the pieces is unique to this game. The general, advisors, and elephants are restricted to their own palace or their side of the river, consTraining their mobility. Other pieces, such as horses and chariots, bear similarities to the knight and rook in Western chess.
3.[Pieces on Lines] Unlike Western Chess where pieces are placed within squares, Chinese Chess pieces are positioned on the intersections of lines, also known as points. This gives a different perspective to the board and influences the piece movements.
Gameplay：
1.[Cannon Piece] The Cannon is a unique piece to Chinese Chess. Its distinctive movement pattern, where it jumps over an intervening piece to capture another piece, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the gameplay.
2.[No Piece Promotion] In Chinese Chess, pieces do not have promotion unlike in Western Chess. This requires players to optimize the use of each piece to its full extent from the beginning to the end of the game.
3.[PerPetual Checks and Chases] The rules against perpetual checks and chases create an additional aspect of Strategy and planning. These prohibit a player from continuously threatening the same piece or sets of pieces turn after turn, requiring the player to change strategy.
Game Highlights：
1.[Huge Openings Library] There are numerous well-studied opening lines in Chinese Chess. Interested players can delve into the rich history of this game and learn the strengths and weaknesses of early-move strategies.
2.[Stalemate is a Loss] Unlike Western chess, in a stalemate situation, the player who cannot make a legal move loses the game. This makes for more aggressive end-game strategies.
3.[Checkmate Without Announcement] The requirement to announce a check does not exist in Chinese Chess. This element of surprise adds excitement and requires more attention from each player.