Game guide · XINHENGEST
The Breakthrough playbook
The board gives you the information needed for the next action. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The game area remains available above the explanation. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
Bring this focus to a round
The board gives you the information needed for the next action. Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
What you are aiming for
Check the rule below as you play. 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.
The order of play
- 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
Take a moment to check the current turn. Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
See how the rules apply
A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. Start a new round when you are ready to try again.
An important reminder
Use the controls beside the game rather than guessing the rules. Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. The game area remains available above the explanation.
Further help with the game
When I start, what is the aim of Breakthrough?
Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The controls work with mouse or touch.
For this game, how do the controls work?
Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. The controls work with mouse or touch.
When I start, 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. Scores here do not represent cash or prizes.
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. A new round resets the current game.
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 instructions above use these same rules.
How many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. A new round resets the current game.
When I start, 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.
On this page, can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. No download or player account is required.
On this page, is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. A new round resets the current game.
What wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. A new round resets the current game.