Hasami Shogi

Nine pieces each on the back rank. Move like a rook (horizontal or vertical, any distance). Capture by custodian: when opponent pieces are flanked by two of yours on a row or file, remove the flanked ones. Corner rule: a piece in a corner can be captured by two of yours on the two edge lines meeting that corner. Win by either reducing the opponent to one piece, or (common variant) forming five-in-a-row in the centre. No capturing by moving between two enemy pieces—you must sandwich. Related to tori shogi and minishogi for learners.

Hasami Shogi is a simplified teaching variant of shogi, used in Japanese schools and shogi clubs to introduce the concept of capture without piece types or promotion. Regional rule variations exist—some use a larger board, some allow different win conditions. Related to tori shogi (bird shogi) and minishogi for learners. Today it remains a children's and casual game, low barrier for all ages. The Japan Shogi Association promotes it as a gateway to full shogi.

Control the centre files to maximise rook range. Set up double threats on two lines at once. Corners are high-value traps—use them to capture. Block opponent from forming a central five.

Taught in Japanese elementary schools; gateway to full shogi. Shogi clubs use it for beginners. Low barrier; all ages. Hasami Shogi uses the same 9×9 grid as full shogi but with only nine pieces per side; custodian capture is intuitive. The game is available as a standalone set or can be played with shogi pieces. Ideal for introducing capture logic before learners tackle full shogi.