Doushouqi ('fighting animal game') is a Chinese game of unknown age and origin. It has been suggested that it dates from the early 20th century and may be derived from, or at least influenced by, Xiangqi (Chinese chess). Anyone interested can find my thoughts on that here.
Whether or not the game is linked to Xiangqi in some way, it's an interesting little game on its own. All pieces move the same and capturing is hierarchical: a piece can’t capture a 'higher' piece. The aim of the game is to occupy the opponent's den with a piece. As such, the game combines elements of both a war game and a positional game. The game is purely strategic; dice or hidden information play no role.
I got my copy from a shop in Soho, London, many years ago.
In the wee box are a paper board and wooden pieces, showing the different animals.
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