How do you play Dobutsu Shogi (Let's Catch the Lion)?

Dobutsu Shogi is a simplified version of Japanese chess played on a small 3x4 board using wooden animal figures. The objective is to catch the opponent's lion, similar to capturing the king in traditional chess, while moving pieces like giraffes and elephants based on their specific rules.

What are the rules for dropping captured pieces in Dobutsu Shogi?

Like in traditional shogi, when you capture an opponent's piece, you hold it in your hand and can 'drop' it back onto the board as your own piece on a future turn. However, you cannot drop a piece onto a square if it would have no legal moves, nor can you drop a chick onto the last row where it would be unable to move.

Can you win instantly in Dobutsu Shogi?

Yes, you can win instantly by moving your lion onto the opponent's baseline (the first row), provided it is completely safe from capture on the opponent's next turn. Alternatively, you win the game by directly capturing the opponent's lion.

What ages is Dobutsu Shogi suitable for?

The game was specifically created by professional shogi player Madoka Kitao to teach young children the basic concepts of shogi, making it suitable for kids ages 4 and up. Despite being an educational tool, its deep tactical choices make it highly enjoyable for adult strategy gamers as well.

Where does Dobutsu Shogi rank on Lunoo?

Dobutsu Shogi is ranked #5 in Lunoo's Best Chess Variant rankings with a score of 8.7/10.

How does Dobutsu Shogi compare to competitors?

Lunoo provides objective, AI-powered comparisons. Use the comparison tool to see Dobutsu Shogi side-by-side with any alternative.

zoom_in Click to enlarge

Dobutsu Shogi

8.74

Great

▲ ▼

description Dobutsu Shogi Overview

Dobutsu Shogi, also marketed as "Let's Catch the Lion," is a simplified variant of the traditional Japanese board game shogi, released in 2009. Created by professional shogi player Madoka Kitao, the game is played on a 3x4 grid and uses wooden animal figures such as lions, giraffes, elephants, and chicks. Despite its visual appeal to children, the game successfully preserves core shogi mechanics, including the ability to drop captured pieces back onto the board. It serves as an effective educational tool for teaching spatial strategy to young beginners.

help Dobutsu Shogi FAQ

How good is Dobutsu Shogi?

Dobutsu Shogi scores 8.74/10 (Great) on Lunoo, making it a well-rated option in the Chess Variant category. Widely praised teaching game with elegant simplification, charming presentation, quick play, and proven success introducing children to shogi.

What are the best alternatives to Dobutsu Shogi?

See our alternatives page for Dobutsu Shogi for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: Chess960 (Fischer Random Chess), Shogi, Xiangqi.

How does Dobutsu Shogi compare to Chess960 (Fischer Random Chess)?

See our detailed comparison of Dobutsu Shogi vs Chess960 (Fischer Random Chess) with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.

Is Dobutsu Shogi worth it in 2026?

With a score of 8.74/10, Dobutsu Shogi is highly rated in Chess Variant. See all Chess Variant ranked.

swap_horiz

Looking for Dobutsu Shogi alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward