Handicap study page added

August 5, 2024 by shogishack

Shogi is a game that is not influenced by elements of luck, making it difficult to win against a higher-ranking player. However, it is not enjoyable to play against someone who is holding back. A way to enjoy a serious match on equal terms with a higher-ranking player is through ‘handicap shogi.’

Handicap Shogi is played with a method called ‘駒落ち’ (komaochi), which translates to ‘piece drop’ or ‘handicap.’ In a 駒落ち game, the stronger player starts with some of their pieces removed from the board. These removed pieces are not used during the game. The player who dropped the pieces is called 上手 (uwate, the stronger player), and the other player is called 下手 (shitate, the weaker player). In Handicap game, Uwate always make a first move.

In my experience, Western shogi players tend to dislike playing with handicaps. As a result, they prefer to play even games (Hirate or 平手） with far stronger opponents and end up getting thoroughly beaten. Nowadays, you can play against the computer with its strength adjusted to match your skill level, but it means the computer will play ineffective moves so it will be less learning. I believe it is beneficial to at least have knowledge of handicap shogi. Therefore, I have added a new page under Shogi strategy section, introducing the typical types of handicap games. You can view it here. Please enjoy.