The Pieces
A practical guide to xiangqi piece values: chariot, cannon, horse, elephant, advisor and soldier, how their worth shifts from opening to endgame, and fair trade
For Chess Players
If you play chess, you are closer to xiangqi than you think. What transfers directly, which habits will cost you games, and a two-week plan to get going.
Middlegame
Every xiangqi trade changes the game. When to exchange and when to avoid it: material, activity, defenders, cannon versus horse, and heading for a winning endga
Beginners
A five-step routine to use before every xiangqi move: read the opponent's threat, look for checks and captures, check legs, eyes and screens, then a final safet
The Pieces
Soldiers (Tốt) move one step forward, then sideways too after crossing the river. How they gain value, where they belong, and how to use them in the endgame.
Middlegame
A soldier across the river changes the middlegame. When to advance one, how to support it, how crossed soldiers attack the palace, and how to stop the opponent'
Openings
The Screen Horses (Bình phong Mã) is Black's classic reply to the Central Cannon. How to build it, what each piece does, typical plans, and mistakes to avoid.
Beginners
How to get the most out of playing xiangqi against the computer: choosing a level, using take-backs well, practicing specific skills, and knowing when to switch
Middlegame
In xiangqi, pieces win together, not alone. How chariot, cannon and horse combine, classic partnerships, and how to spot and fix pieces that are not cooperating
Beginners
You can get good at xiangqi without spending money. How to combine free play, game review, replaying strong games, endgame drills and local players into real pr
Beginners
A practical four-week xiangqi plan for 20 minutes a day: rules and blocks, basic mates, opening habits, tactics with horses and cannons, and your first online g
The Pieces
Elephants (Tượng) and advisors (Sĩ) guard the xiangqi general. How they move, the elephant's eye block, good defensive formations and when their loss is fatal.