XIANGQI KNIGHT

Play Xiangqi Online Free — No Download, No Sign-up Needed

XIANGQI KNIGHT is a free online Chinese chess (Xiangqi) platform that runs in any modern browser. Open the page and you are at the board — nothing to install, nothing to pay. On a phone you can add it to your home screen and it behaves like a native app, and the AI mode even works offline. Whether you call it Xiangqi, Chinese chess, cờ tướng or 象棋, this is the place to play.

Five ways to play

• Online duels — real-time matchmaking with players worldwide and a rating ladder; if nobody joins, an AI player steps in so you never wait.
• Challenge a Friend — generate a private link, send it by any app, and your friend opens it to sit opposite you instantly. How friend challenges work →
• Play vs Computer — a built-in engine with five strength levels, from gentle beginner to grandmaster.
• Endgame Trials — 259 tactical puzzles, each mating line machine-verified. Browse the endgame collection →
• Local Duel — two players, one device, face to face.

How a game works

Red moves first. Online games use a 10-minute clock plus 90 seconds per move, and an anti-draw rule keeps games decisive: the same piece may not shuffle between two points 10 times in a row, and may not deliver nine consecutive checks with the same piece. Win by checkmating the enemy General — the flying-general rule means the two kings may never face each other on an open file.

Xiangqi vs international chess

Xiangqi shares DNA with chess but plays faster and more aggressively: the board is 9×10 with a river in the middle, pieces sit on intersections, the Cannon captures by jumping over a screen, and Soldiers promote after crossing the river. Full comparison: Xiangqi vs chess →

Common questions

Is it really free?

Yes. All modes are free, there are no ads, and support is entirely voluntary.

Do I need to download or install anything?

No. It runs in the browser; installing to the home screen is optional.

Can I play with a friend in another city?

Yes — use Challenge a Friend and send the private link; the game starts the moment your friend opens it.

I'm a beginner. Where do I start?

Read the ten-minute guide, then try the easy AI level and the first endgame trials.

Does it work on mobile?

Yes, the layout adapts to phones and tablets, and installation adds an app icon.

Learn more: Xiangqi vs international chess · Play with friends · Endgame puzzles · About Xiangqi · About us