The Plum Flower Ancient Manual by Wang Zaiyue - A Timeless Classic of Xiangqi
Xiangqi, or Chinese Chess, is a beloved game that captivates players worldwide with its intellectual depth and strategic complexity. As a testament to its enduring appeal, the Plum Flower Manual stands as one of the most treasured works in the history of Xiangqi literature.
Authored by Wang Zaiyue, the manual primarily focuses on six opening variations, detailing both offensive and defensive strategies. While some positions are borrowed from earlier works, Wang's most significant contribution lies in his innovative approach to the "Central Cannon vs. Screen Horses" opening. His strategic insights have shaped this style of play for centuries, influencing players even to this day.
Alongside the "Orange Centre Secret" and the "Hundred Games of Xiangqi," the Plum Flower Manual forms a triumvirate of ancient Xiangqi texts that have withstood the test of time. Each work has its strengths: the Orange Centre Secret excels in Straightforward Cannon tactics, while the Hundred Games showcases brilliant positions from past masters. The Plum Flower Manual, however, delves deep into the intricacies of the Screen Horses defense against the Central Cannon attack.
The manual's revolutionary impact cannot be overstated. When the Orange Centre Secret was first published, many believed it had solved Xiangqi theory, particularly with its seemingly invincible Straightforward Cannon attack. However, in 1692, Wang Zaiyue boldly challenged this notion, creating a new school of thought centered around the Screen Horses defense.
At the heart of the Plum Flower Manual is the Screen Horses vs. Central Cannon strategy. When the first player opens with a Central Cannon, the second player responds by moving horses to the third and seventh files, creating a solid "screen" that protects the central file while preparing for a counterattack with rooks and cannons. Wang's in-depth analysis and practical examples proved highly persuasive, offering players an effective method to counter the once-dominant Central Cannon opening.
The Screen Horses strategy embodies a philosophy of "strong attack, solid defense," resulting in games that are balanced yet thrilling. Despite later works attempting to refute it, the Plum Flower Manual has remained a cornerstone of Xiangqi theory for centuries. Its numerous reprints in China and Vietnam attest to its enduring value and the continued demand from Xiangqi enthusiasts.
