Here are some things about Chinese chess from the manual:
The game is played by two players (Red against the Black/Green). Players move one of their own pieces at a time in turns. Red always begins.
The goal in Chinese chess is to checkmate or stalemate the opponent’s king. Checkmate means that the king is under attack (i.e. being checked = about to be captured) and it cannot be moved anywhere to avoid being captured. Also, no other piece can be used to protect the king. Stalemate means that the king is not under attack but no move can be made to avoid the king being captured.
The Chinese chess board consists of 9 horizontal and 10 vertical positions. The pieces are placed on the intersections of the lines, not inside the squares as in western chess.
In the middle of the board is a horizontal area called the river. The river divides the board into two sides. Certain pieces may never cross the river and are thus confined to their own side of the board. When a pawn crosses the river (i.e. enters the opponent’s side of the board), it gains additional moves.
Both sides of the board contain an area called the palace. The palace consists of 9 positions and is marked with a big X. The king and its two guards may only move within the palace.
“Hidden Lynx” includes a detailed manual that will explain all the pieces and possible moves of the game. It also has many settings (e.g. show available moves or explain why a move is prohibited)
that will help beginners to get familiar with the game very soon.
Another thing that really makes Hidden Lynx enjoyable for me is how it manages to stay interesting even after playing it multiple times. Many games feel repetitive after a while, but here, the experience still feels fresh because of the small details and different ways you can approach the gameplay. As you continue playing, you naturally start improving and understanding the mechanics better, which makes everything feel more rewarding. I also appreciate the balance the game maintains—it’s not too difficult, but it’s not too easy either. You can play it casually for a short break or spend longer sessions without getting bored. That flexibility is one of the biggest reasons why I keep coming back to Hidden Lynx. Overall, it’s the kind of game that doesn’t just entertain you for a moment, but actually gives you a consistently enjoyable experience every time you play.
