It is a non-perfect abstract strategy game of partial information, since each player has only limited knowledge concerning the disposition of the opposing pieces.

Both players begin by arranging their pieces on their half of the board, with the markings that indicate rank facing towards them (and hence invisible to the opponent).

The arrangement of landmines and nearby pieces should also be carefully thought out to secure the defense of the headquarters.

One of the main spin-offs of Luzhanqi is Si Guo Zhan Qi [zh] (Chinese: 四国戰棋; pinyin: sìguó jūnqí; lit.

'Four Country Battle Chess') derived from arranging a board for four-players, with each taking up a territory adjacent to another at 90-degree angles.

If a player has his flag captured, he must admit defeat, thus removing all of his pieces off the board.

A six-player variant also exists, named 六国戰棋; liùguó jūnqí; 'Six Country Battle Chess'.

Similar to the four-player variant, it features three teams of two, with each player seated opposite their teammate.