Perpetual check: who must change the move?

Quick answer

Three patterns to distinguish

Scroll the table sideways to compare all columns.

Three patterns to distinguish
Pattern	WXF treatment
One side checks on every move	That side must vary or lose
Both sides check on every move	Draw
One side always checks; the other counter-checks every other move	The always-checking side must vary

Diagram 1

WXF 2018 · Chapter 5 · §1 · Diagram 1

Diagram 2

WXF 2018 · Chapter 5 · §1 · Diagram 2

Diagram 4

WXF 2018 · Chapter 5 · §2 · Diagram 4

Diagram 5

WXF 2018 · Chapter 5 · §3 · Diagram 5

Read the return move

In a cross-check, a player both answers the current check and checks the opposing King. In a two-to-one check, that counter-check occurs only on alternate replies. Article 19.17 names this pattern; it does not mean the sides have equal responsibility.

FAQ

Must the same piece give every check?

The relevant question is whether the player checks on every move in the repeating sequence. Changing the checking piece does not by itself remove perpetual-check responsibility.

Source and scope

According to World XiangQi Rules · World Xiangqi Federation · 2018. Article 19.8; 19.12; 19.17; 20.1; Chapter 5 §§1–3.

These guides explain the WXF 2018 rules. They do not replace the official rules or the regulations of your event.