Janggi Board Game also known as Korean Chess, is a traditional two-player board game that originated in Korea. With its roots dating back over a thousand years, Janggi has evolved into a fascinating strategy game that continues to captivate players of all ages. Similar to its more well-known Chinese counterpart, Xiangqi (Chinese Chess), Janggi brings forth a unique set of rules, pieces, and gameplay, making it a distinct and enjoyable experience for enthusiasts of strategy and board games.
Objective
The objective of Janggi is to checkmate the opponent’s General, known as the “Jang” (장), by placing it in a position where it cannot escape capture on the next turn. Both players take turns moving their pieces, aiming to outmaneuver their adversary and secure victory.
The Janggi Board
The game is played on a board with nine vertical lines and ten horizontal lines, resulting in a 9×10 grid. The vertical lines are marked with Korean letters, while the horizontal lines are numbered. The board is set up between the two players in such a way that each player faces the board with their pieces arranged at the bottommost row. The board’s unique construction reflects the river in the center, which creates specific movement restrictions for some pieces.
The Janggi Pieces
1. General (Jang, 장)
The most crucial piece in the game, each player has one General. The General starts the game at the center of the back row and moves one point vertically or horizontally at a time. However, the General cannot leave the “castle,” which consists of the nine central points on the board.
2. Guard (Sang, 상)
Positioned on either side of the General, each player has two Guards. The Guards can move one point diagonally within the castle, similar to how the General moves. They serve to protect the General.
3. Elephant (Ssa, 쏘)
The Elephants are placed beside the Guards. They move two points diagonally but are restricted by the river, making them unable to cross it. Each player has two Elephants.
4. Horse (Ma, 마)
The Horses stand beside the Elephants, and each player has two of them. Horses move one point vertically and then one point horizontally in any direction. If there is a piece one point away from the Horse’s destination, the Horse can jump over it.
5. Chariot (Po, 포)
Positioned at the corners, each player has two Chariots. Chariots move in a straight line horizontally or vertically, for as many points as the player desires until they reach the edge of the board or another piece.
6. Cannon (Cha, 차)
Cannons start the game beside the Chariots. Each player has two Cannons. Cannons move like Chariots in a straight line horizontally or vertically. However, Cannons require an intermediate piece, either friendly or enemy, to jump over when capturing another piece.
7. Soldier (Byeong, 병)
Lined up in front of the other pieces, each player has five Soldiers. Soldiers move one point forward vertically until they cross the river. After crossing the river, they can also move one point horizontally.
Setup
Before starting the game, the Janggi board is set up as follows
Gameplay
The game begins with Black making the first move, and the players take turns moving one piece per turn. The pieces move as described in the “Janggi Pieces” section. The Soldiers, Chariots, and Cannons can capture opponent’s pieces when they land on their positions. The game continues until one player successfully checkmates the opponent’s General or renders the opponent unable to make any legal moves.
See More : Jacquet Board Game Instructions, Rules & Activity Guide
Conclusion
Janggi is a deeply strategic board game that demands tactical thinking and cunning moves. With its historical significance and engaging gameplay, Janggi provides a thrilling experience for players seeking to challenge their strategic acumen. As with any classic board game, mastering Janggi requires practice, patience, and a willingness to adapt one’s strategies. So gather a friend, set up the board, and immerse yourself in the rich and captivating world of Janggi!
