Must you get out of check immediately in xiangqi?
These answers restate the rules implemented by our open-source engine, which follows the WXF laws and is regression-tested against the official 110-diagram repetition casebook. Where an answer refers to a specific position, that position lives on the linked reference page, where the build verifies it against the engine before publishing.
Direct answer
Yes, on the very next move. You must capture the checking piece, block the line, or move the general to a safe point. Any move that leaves your general attacked — including a move that exposes it to the enemy general — is illegal and simply cannot be played.
When blocking does not work
- Against a horse — blocking the line is meaningless; you must block the horse's leg, capture it, or move.
- Against a cannon — adding a piece to the line gives it a second screen, which switches the check off. Removing the existing screen does the same.
- Against a double check — nothing can be blocked or captured; the general must move.
Perpetual check is not a way out
Answering check forever by giving check back does not produce a draw. Under the repetition laws, the player delivering perpetual check is required to vary and loses if they will not.
Related questions
Can I ignore check if I have mate in one?
No. The rules are absolute: you must answer the check, whatever else is available.
Is a double check possible?
Yes, usually from a discovered attack. The general must move — nothing else answers two checks at once.
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