What does a typical opening sequence look like for a beginner?
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
A common start: Red plays 炮二平五 (Central Cannon, C2=5), aiming a cannon straight at the centre. Black replies 馬8進7 (H8+7), developing a horse that also defends the central soldier. Both sides then bring out their other horse and a chariot before deciding on a plan. It is not the only reasonable start, but it is the one you will meet most often.
Why this exact pairing is so common
The Central Cannon creates an immediate, concrete threat down the central file, and Screen Horses answers it efficiently, in one move it develops a piece and defends the point under pressure. Between them they demonstrate the two core opening ideas, create a threat, meet a threat, better than almost any other starting sequence. See the Central Cannon and Screen Horses.
What comes after those first two moves
Typically both sides continue developing: a second horse, a chariot brought toward an open file, and a decision about which elephant or advisor arrangement to settle into. Nothing about this early stage needs memorising; it follows naturally from "develop pieces, meet threats, keep the general safe" applied one move at a time.
Related questions
Do I have to play the Central Cannon as Red?
No. It is simply the most common and most instructive first move, not a requirement. See choosing an opening for sound alternatives.
What if my opponent doesn't play Screen Horses as Black?
Perfectly normal; several other replies are sound. Screen Horses is simply the one you will see most often and the one worth learning first.
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