Space shogi

9x9x9 variant of Japanese chess

Space shogi is a three-dimensional shogi variant invented by George R. Dekle Sr. in 1987.^[1]^[2] The gamespace comprises nine 9×9 shogi boards stacked vertically. Each player controls a standard set of shogi pieces.

Space shogi was included in World Game Review No. 10 edited by Michael Keller.^[3]

Game rules

Space shogi follows standard shogi conventions, including the same types and numbers of pieces, and a similar initial setup. All the normal shogi rules apply, including drops, promotion, check, checkmate, and impasse. But pieces have the freedom of three-dimensional movement.

Starting setup

Black starts the game occupying levels 1 through 3; White starts on levels 9 through 7.

Black's level 1 (and White's level 9, rank a) starting setup. Unlike standard shogi, the silver is placed between the lance and the knight (8i and 2i in the diagram).

Black's level 2 (and White's level 8, rank b) starting setup. The bishop and rook occupy the same positions as in standard shogi.

Black's level 3 (and White's level 7, rank c) starting setup. The pawns fill the same rank as in standard shogi.

References

^ Pritchard (1994), p. 285
^ Pritchard (2007), p. 261
^ Keller, Michael, ed. (June 1991). "A Panorama of Chess Variants". World Game Review. No. 10. Michael Keller. ISSN 1041-0546.

Bibliography

Pritchard, D. B. (1994). The Encyclopedia of Chess Variants. Games & Puzzles Publications. ISBN 0-9524142-0-1.
Pritchard, D. B. (2007). Beasley, John (ed.). The Classified Encyclopedia of Chess Variants. John Beasley. ISBN 978-0-9555168-0-1.

Shogi variants

Standard shōgi (9×9, drops)

Small variants