Sho&lsquojin evolves chess by adding transformation abilities to classic pieces. Each transformation costs a move and returns the piece to its normal form afterward.

• Pawn → Landsknecht: Two moves per turn; extended en passant and Patriot Chess rules apply.
• Bishop → Assassin: Destroys all enemy pieces in an 8-square radius.
• Knight → Shield Knight: Protects nearby allies from classic captures; not from special abilities.
• Rook → Cannon: Eliminates first visible target in all four cardinal directions.
• Queen → Nemesis: Immune to transformation attacks; can downgrade all anticipated enemy abilities via Intimidation.
• King → Puppeteer: Uses Jin to influence enemy pieces. Jinned pieces are downgraded, become immune to friendly fire, and may turn tides via Shojin or Jinsho mechanics.

Important Mechanics

• Kings in check cannot transform or use abilities.
• Transformations cannot resolve check situations.
• Jin ends if connection breaks; Puppeteer remains transformed unless placed in check.
• Jinsho: placing enemy King under Jin directly = checkmate.
• No piece may capture its own team.