Game guide · 400286
Read before your next round of Breakthrough
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The game area remains available above the explanation. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
Practice with a purpose
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed. Start a new round when you are ready to try again.
The purpose of your moves
Begin with the basic rule, then follow the result of your action. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The game area remains available above the explanation.
Step by step
- Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board.
- Blue moves upward and red downward. Move one square straight or diagonally forward into an empty square.
- Capture only one square diagonally forward. Straight captures and backward moves are not allowed.
- Reach the farthest row with any piece, or remove all opposing pieces, to win. Captures are optional.
- Choose a computer opponent or two players on the same device. New round resets the board.
Input guidance
Keep the goal in view while choosing a move. Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. The game area remains available above the explanation.
See how the rules apply
The example and rules describe the same game you can play above. A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
A mistake to avoid
Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. Try the rule on the board, then read the next instruction.
Questions that come up during play
When I start, what is the aim of Breakthrough?
Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. You can start a new round from the game controls.
For this game, how do the controls work?
Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice. You can start a new round from the game controls.
When I start, can you show an example?
A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. The instructions above use these same rules.
Which mistake should I avoid?
Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. Scores here do not represent cash or prizes.
For this game, what rules and limits are used here?
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer. No download or player account is required.
For this game, how many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. The controls work with mouse or touch.
During a round, can I move diagonally without capturing?
Yes. A diagonally forward empty square is a legal destination. No download or player account is required.
Can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. A new round resets the current game.
When I start, is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
What wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. Use the labelled controls for your next action.