Xiangqi (象棋), often called Chinese chess, is played on a 9×10 grid with a river dividing the two sides. Two generals must avoid each other on an open file. The goal is checkmate.
General (帥/將) — Vua
1 step orthogonally inside the 3×3 palace. Cannot face the enemy general on an empty file.
Advisor (仕/士) — Sĩ
1 step diagonally inside the palace.
Elephant (相/象) — Tượng
Exactly 2 diagonals, cannot cross the river. Blocked if the diagonal midpoint is occupied.
Horse (馬) — Mã
1 orthogonal + 1 outward diagonal. Blocked if the orthogonal leg is occupied.
Chariot (車) — Xe
Any distance orthogonally, like a rook.
Cannon (炮) — Pháo
Moves like a chariot; captures by jumping exactly one piece (the screen).
Soldier (兵/卒) — Tốt
1 step forward. After crossing the river, also 1 step sideways. Never backward.