Game guide · ZING22
Read before your next round of Breakthrough
The example and rules describe the same game you can play above. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
An idea for your next attempt
The board gives you the information needed for the next action. Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
Understand the aim
Use the controls beside the game rather than guessing the rules. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
Start here and follow along
- Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
- Blue moves upward and red downward. Move one square straight or diagonally forward into an empty square.
- Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
- Reach the farthest row with any piece, or remove all opposing pieces, to win. Captures are optional.
- Choose a computer opponent or two players on the same device. New round resets the board.
How your actions work
Take a moment to check the current turn. Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. Keep the goal in mind before your next move.
A closer look at one example
Read the position before choosing your next action. A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. Keep the goal in mind before your next move.
An important reminder
Begin with the basic rule, then follow the result of your action. Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
Further help with the game
What is the aim of Breakthrough?
Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. A new round resets the current game.
During a round, how do the controls work?
Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. Use the labelled controls for your next action.
For this game, can you show an example?
A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. The game is played locally in your browser.
Which mistake should I avoid?
Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. No download or player account is required.
On this page, what rules and limits are used here?
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer. The controls work with mouse or touch.
When I start, how many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
On this page, can I move diagonally without capturing?
Yes. A diagonally forward empty square is a legal destination. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
For this game, can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
During a round, is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. No download or player account is required.
When I start, what wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. The game is played locally in your browser.
