Chess in Where Winds Meet is a tactical minigame inspired by Chinese chess principles, but with its own twists. You don’t rely on openings or fixed setups — instead, every match begins with randomly assigned pieces, challenging you to adapt quickly. Whether you’re practicing for fun or trying to clear an NPC challenge, understanding the rules helps you win consistently.

Chess gameplay in Where Winds Meet

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All Chess matches locations in Where Winds Meet

Kaifeng chess matches
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  1. Mao Tianyou’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin — Determined Stride, Kunshan Jade Seal
  2. Li Jiaojiao’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin
  3. Wan Zhi’an’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin — Seven Poets ×1, Red Clay Tea Set ×1
  4. Bai Yunsheng’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin
  5. Jin Lanke’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin
  6. Ma Sizhong’s Chess Game — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin
Qinghe chess matches
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  1. Ye Buxiu’s Betting Match (Betting Board)Medium 50 → 100, Hard 100 → 200, Expert 150 → 300
  2. Wang Dayan’s Chess Match — 10 → 20 Commerce Coin — Momentum Follower ×1, Red Clay Tea Set ×1
  3. Yan Ying’s Chess Match — 50 → 100 Commerce Coin — Emerging Loongs ×1, Lady Xu’s Dagger ×1
  4. Qi Sheng’s Chess Match — 30 → 60 Commerce Coin — Chariot Breaker ×1, Kunshan Jade Seal ×1

How chess works in Where Winds Meet

Reach any chess playing NPC in your area, talk to him and prompt him to play chess with you.

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The objective is eliminating the enemy General

Your win condition is simple: defeat the opposing General. Unlike classic chess, there’s no check or checkmate sequence — you directly capture the General to end the match.

Generals cannot face each other

If you ever move in a way that places both Generals in direct, unobstructed line of sight, you immediately lose. This is one of the most important rules to remember in every match.

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Pieces are random every time

Before each match starts, both sides receive a random set of pieces. This means no two matches are the same — and sometimes you’ll need to adapt quickly if you roll a weaker lineup.

Use defensive-only pieces wisely

Some pieces cannot cross the River. These become your natural wall to protect the General, maintaining formations and preventing enemy breakthroughs.

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How to start playing chess in the world

You can begin chess matches simply by interacting with NPCs that have chess challenges. Many are peaceful encounters requiring no combat, making them a relaxing break during exploration.

What you need to begin

No special items or prerequisites — any player can start playing chess as soon as they find an NPC offering it.

Chess rewards in Where Winds Meet

You will unlock the Checkmate Achievement as you win a chess game in Where Winds Meet. You can also get Echo Jade or EXP depending on your match and levels. You improve affection points with the NPC, too.