How to Play Go

Introduction

Go, also known as Weiqi or Baduk, is an ancient strategy game that originated in China over 4,000 years ago. With its simple rules yet profound strategy, Go has captivated players worldwide. Whether you’re a complete novice or a curious gamer this comprehensive guide will teach you how to play Go step by step, making it easy for you to join the millions who enjoy this timeless game.

How to Play Go Step by Step

Understanding the Basics

• The game is played on a square grid, typically 19x19 or 13x13 for beginners.
• Black and white stones are used, and Black moves first.
• The goal is to control more territory than your opponent by surrounding empty spaces with your stones.

Setting Up the Board

• Place the grid on a flat surface and position each player opposite each other.
• Each player has a bowl of stones.
• Black goes first and places one stone on any intersection (point) on the board.
• White responds by placing a stone on a different intersection.

Capturing Stones: The Essence of Go

Capturing Enemy Stones

• When a player surrounds an opposing stone (or group of stones) on all four sides with their stones, the captured stones are removed from the board.
• Captured stones cannot be returned to the board during the game.

Ko Rule: Preventing Repetition

• If a player attempts to capture an enemy stone by filling the last liberty (the final empty space adjacent to the stone), the Ko rule prevents this move.
• The player must place their stone elsewhere on the board instead.

Basic Strategies for Beginners

Learning the Center

• Initially, focus on controlling the center of the board as this is typically the most vital area.
• Placing stones in the center secures territory and influences surrounding areas.

Building Territory

• Work on creating enclosed spaces surrounded by your stones.
• The enclosed empty spaces become your territory and contribute to your final score.

By following this step-by-step guide and incorporating these strategies and tips, you and your kids can start playing Go in no time. Remember, the beauty of Go lies in its simplicity and depth, so enjoy the learning process and have fun exploring this fascinating game!