Game guide · MIBDF
Breakthrough: rules and examples
The example and rules describe the same game you can play above. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. Each player begins with sixteen pieces on the nearest two rows of an 8×8 board. Keep the goal in mind before your next move.
8×8 board, sixteen pieces per side, basic local computer strategy and same-device play. No promotion, castling or remote multiplayer.
Bring this focus to a round
A careful first move helps you understand the round. 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 challenge in front of you
The example and rules describe the same game you can play above. Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The game area remains available above the explanation.
The order of play
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
Check the rule below as you play. Tap one of your pieces, then a highlighted destination. Select a different piece to change your choice.
See how the rules apply
A blue piece can advance straight into an empty square or diagonally forward into an empty or red-occupied square. The game area remains available above the explanation.
Where a round can go wrong
Read the position before choosing your next action. Breakthrough pieces are not chess pawns: diagonal moves into empty squares are legal, and there is no initial two-square move. The game area remains available above the explanation.
Answers about the rules and controls
For this game, what is the aim of Breakthrough?
Reach the opposite back row with one of your pieces, or capture all opposing pieces. The controls work with mouse or touch.
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. Scores here do not represent cash or prizes.
For this game, 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. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
When I start, 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. No download or player account is required.
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. Use the labelled controls for your next action.
On this page, how many people can play here?
Computer or same-device 2 players. This is local browser play, not internet matchmaking. Scores here do not represent cash or prizes.
When I start, can I move diagonally without capturing?
Yes. A diagonally forward empty square is a legal destination. Keep the current game state in view while applying this rule.
On this page, can I capture straight ahead?
No. Captures must be diagonally forward. The controls work with mouse or touch.
On this page, is capturing compulsory?
No. You may choose any legal move. The instructions above use these same rules.
When I start, what wins the round?
Reaching the opponent’s back row with one piece, or capturing every opposing piece. The instructions above use these same rules.