What is the most common checkmate in Xiangqi?

Cannon-based mates such as the double cannon and horse-behind-cannon patterns are among the most common in real games.

Can the general help checkmate in Xiangqi?

Yes. Because the two generals may not face each other on an open file, a general controls its file and often supports mate in the endgame.

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7 Xiangqi checkmate patterns every player should know

Most Xiangqi games are decided by a small set of recurring checkmate patterns. Once you can recognise them, you will spot winning attacks – and dangers to your own general – much faster.

1. Double cannon mate (重炮)

Two cannons line up on the same file as the enemy general. The rear cannon uses the front cannon as its screen, so the check cannot be blocked by putting a single piece in between – blocking only gives the front cannon a screen of its own. With the general unable to step aside, it is mate.

2. Horse behind cannon (马后炮)

A horse stands on the same file or rank as the enemy general and acts as the cannon’s screen, while a cannon behind the horse gives check. The horse also covers the squares the general would flee to. It is one of the most common mates in real games.

3. Iron bolt (铁门栓)

A central cannon pins the enemy general to the centre while a chariot slides into the palace along the bottom rank. The cannon stops the general from stepping to the central file and the chariot delivers mate.

4. Palcorner horse (卧槽马)

A horse lands on the point just in front of the corner of the enemy palace and checks the general. Supported by a chariot or cannon covering the escape squares, it is very hard to defend.

5. Smothered general (闷宫)

The general is boxed in by its own advisors. A cannon checks along the file using an advisor or other piece as its screen, and the general has nowhere to go because its own pieces block every escape.

6. Double chariots (双车错)

Two chariots take turns checking on adjacent ranks or files, “walking” the general to the edge of the palace until it runs out of squares. Two active chariots against a bare palace almost always win.

7. Flying general (对面笑)

Because the generals may not face each other on an open file, your own general controls that file. A single chariot or soldier can deliver mate when the enemy general cannot step onto the file your general covers.

How to practise checkmates

Set a goal in every game against the computer: finish with one of these patterns.
Before every move, ask: “Which of my pieces could become a screen for an enemy cannon?”
Keep advisors and elephants connected – most of these mates work because one defender is missing.

Put the patterns to work against the AI, or read our strategy tips to set them up more often.

FAQ

What is the most common checkmate in Xiangqi?: Cannon-based mates such as the double cannon and horse-behind-cannon patterns are among the most common in real games.
Can the general help checkmate in Xiangqi?: Yes. Because the two generals may not face each other on an open file, a general controls its file and often supports mate in the endgame.