Game guide · SHOUJIKON
Understand the basics of Breakthrough
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
A small practice goal
A careful first move helps you understand the round. Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
What you need to achieve
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces.
The playing sequence
- Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
- Blue moves upward and red downward. Move one square straight or diagonally forward into an empty square.
- Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
- Reach the farthest row with any piece, or remove all opposing pieces, to win. Captures are optional.
- Choose a computer opponent or two players on the same device. New round resets the board.
The controls to know
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice.
An example before you play
Use the controls beside the game rather than guessing the rules. A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
Where a round can go wrong
Take a moment to check the current turn. Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. Keep the goal in mind before your next move.
Read these answers for extra help
What is the aim of Breakthrough?
Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. Scores here do not represent cash or prizes.
When I start, how do the controls work?
Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. The worked example offers another way to follow the rule.
During a round, can you show an example?
A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. You can start a new round from the game controls.
When I start, which mistake should I avoid?
Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. The worked example offers another way to follow the rule.
During a round, what rules and limits are used here?
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer. The controls work with mouse or touch.
On this page, how many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. You can start a new round from the game controls.
Can I move diagonally without capturing?
Yes. A diagonally forward empty square is a legal destination. You can start a new round from the game controls.
For this game, can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. No download or player account is required.
During a round, is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. The controls work with mouse or touch.
When I start, what wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. You can start a new round from the game controls.