Game guide · AHOPENG
The essentials of playing 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. The game area remains available above the explanation. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
One thing to notice as you play
The example and rules describe the same game you can play above. Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
What you need to achieve
Take a moment to check the current turn. 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.
The playing sequence
- 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.
Keyboard and screen controls
The board gives you the information needed for the next action. 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.
See how the rules apply
A careful first move helps you understand the round. A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square.
A mistake to avoid
Take a moment to check the current turn. Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. The game area remains available above the explanation.
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. The controls work with mouse or touch.
When I start, 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.
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.
When I start, 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. The game is played locally in your browser.
During a round, 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. No download or player account is required.
When I start, how many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. The controls work with mouse or touch.
When I start, can I move diagonally without capturing?
Yes. A diagonally forward empty square is a legal destination. The instructions above use these same rules.
On this page, can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. The controls work with mouse or touch.
Is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
What wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. A new round resets the current game.