How to Learn Shogi and Play Online: A Comprehensive Guide

Shogi, also known as Japanese chess, is a captivating board game that combines strategy, tactical thinking, and a unique pawn promotion system. Learning shogi and finding platforms to play it can be an enriching experience. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of how to get started, where to play, and tips for improvement.

How to Learn Shogi

Shogi is a complex but fascinating game, and it's essential to start with the basics. Here are the steps to familiarize yourself with the game:

1. Basic Rules

Learning the rules of shogi is the first step to becoming a competent player. Here are the key aspects:

Board Setup: The board is an 11x11 grid with the players starting on opposite sides. Pieces: Shogi pieces include the King, Gold General, Silver General, Knight, Bishop, Rook, and Pawn, each with unique movement rules. Objective: The objective is to checkmate the opponent's King by putting it in a position where it can be captured on the next move.

Start by learning about each piece and their movement. Here are some helpful resources:

Official Shogi Organization Rules Learn Shogi's Basic Rules Guide

2. Online Tutorials and Videos

If you prefer visual learning, there are numerous tutorial videos available on platforms like YouTube and local shogi channels. These videos cover rules, strategies, and tips:

YouTube Search for Shogi Tutorial Videos Learn Shogi's Interactive Lessons ShogiHub's Comprehensive Tutorials

3. Books

Sayuki or shogi books by authors like John Fairbairn provide an in-depth understanding of the game:

ChessBase's Shogi Books The Art of Shogi

4. Practice Puzzles

To sharpen your tactical skills, solve shogi puzzles at different skill levels:

ShogiPuzzles

5. Join a Community

Connect with the shogi community to find support, discuss strategies, and improve:

r/shogi on Reddit Dedicated Discord Servers

Where to Play Shogi Online and On Mobile Apps

Putting your skills to the test is essential in mastering shogi. Here are platforms where you can play:

1. Online Platforms

81Dojo: A popular online shogi server with varying skill levels and free and premium features. Lichess: Primarily known for chess, Lichess also offers shogi where you can play against others or the computer. Shogi Playground: Allows you to play shogi online against other players.

2. Mobile Apps

Shogi Wars: A mobile app for online play with a ranking system and various game modes. Shogi Quest: Offers online play, puzzles, and lessons.

3. Against AI

Many platforms allow you to play against AI opponents, which can be helpful for practice:

Computer Shogi: Software like ShogiGUI lets you play strong AI engines offline.

Tips for Improvement

To accelerate your learning and improve your skill:

Regular Practice: Play regularly and analyze your games to understand mistakes. Study Professional Games: Analyze professional games to see advanced strategies and tactics. Find a Mentor: Consider finding a mentor or coach to accelerate your learning.

In conclusion, learning shogi and finding platforms to play it can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Utilize the resources and platforms mentioned here, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying and mastering this fascinating game!