Shogi is played on a 9×9 board. Move pieces to checkmate your opponent's king. Captured pieces become your own pieces in hand and can be dropped back onto the board — this is Shogi's defining feature.
History of Shogi
Shogi developed uniquely in Japan. A game it came from was brought to Japan long ago, and rules such as using captured pieces were added there. By the Edo period it was widely enjoyed by ordinary people.
Rules, in brief
Each piece moves in its own way; many pieces can promote when they enter the far zone.
Captured pieces can be dropped onto empty squares as your own pieces.
Checkmate the king to win.
Pawn, lance, and knight cannot be dropped or moved onto a rank where they could never move again. Two pawns in the same file and a dropped-pawn checkmate are prohibited.
Tips for beginners
Protect your king with gold and silver generals.
Use captured pieces well.
Keep the whole board in balance.
Check what your opponent is attacking.
Use hints when you are stuck.
Features of Hanako's app
Tapping a piece shows its legal moves. Three difficulty levels, hints, undo, and resignation are available.