Chu Shogi
Chu Shogi at your next game night?
Add Chu Shogi to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher Diverse Enterprises , The Shogi Association
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
Players command 46 pieces each on a large 12x12 board, including unique pieces like the Drunk Elephant, Phoenix, and the powerful Lion. The goal is to capture the opponent's King, with special promotion rules such as turning the Drunk Elephant into the Crown Prince. Unlike modern Shogi, there are no piece drops. The game offers deep strategic play through diverse movements and a vast array of pieces.
Who Is This Game For?
Chu Shogi is suited for fans of abstract strategy games with experience in chess or Shogi. It is a complex game lasting about 120 minutes, requiring patience and strategic planning. Beginners without background in traditional board games may find it overwhelming.
How It Works
The game uses grid movement on a 12x12 board. Each player moves 46 uniquely capable pieces to threaten the opponent's king. There are no piece drops as in modern Shogi. Promotion of certain pieces, like the Drunk Elephant, changes their abilities and is key strategically.
What Makes It Special
Chu Shogi is an early 14th-century historical strategy game and a precursor to modern Shogi. Its large board and many unique pieces with special movements distinguish it from other traditional chess variants. It belongs to the combinatorial games family and is closely related to classical Shogi and chess.
Pro
- Historical strategy game with long tradition
- Large 12x12 board allowing diverse tactics
- Many unique pieces with special movements
- No piece drops, unlike modern Shogi
Contra
- High complexity and long playtime around 120 minutes
- Only for two players
- No modern aids or simplifications
Setting & atmosphere
The game reflects early 14th-century traditional Japan and is a mid-sized variant among historical Shogi games. It serves as a bridge between Dai Shogi and modern Shogi within Japanese gaming culture.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on learning the unique piece movements and the importance of promotion before exploring complex strategies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Chu Shogi is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 120 minutes, making it an extended strategic experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of chess or Shogi helps due to the complex movements and strategies involved.
How does this compare to similar games?
Compared to modern Shogi, there are no piece drops and the board is much larger with more unique pieces.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The grid movement on a large 12x12 board combined with many special piece movements defines the game.
Fazit
Chu Shogi presents a deep challenge for experienced players interested in historic and complex strategy games. It requires time and understanding of traditional Japanese board games and is less suitable for casual gamers.
Chu Shogi at your next game night?
Add Chu Shogi to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Chu Shogi to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
