"...may move one space in any direction except backward..."(Chapter II of the TEXT)
"...1 space, forward, side, or diagonal, but not backward."(APPENDIX)
STRICT INTERPRETATION(CHAINED PANTHAN):
This interpretation does not allow any backward movement, including diagonally. Since
there is no promotion of the PANTHAN, upon reaching the tenth rank on the board, it becomes
highly ineffectual in the game.
This version forces the player to carefully use the PANTHAN.
LOOSE INTERPRETATION(FREE PANTHAN):
This interpretation allows for backward diagonal movement. Since ERB specifically notes
the term "forward" as the forward orthogonal movement in the APPENDIX, it is taken that the
term "backward" refers only to the backward orthogonal movement. This allows for greater
freedom of movement of the PANTHAN without raising its power significantly. This also
eliminates the problem of the tenth rank stranding.
When the backward diagonal "retreat" movement is used, this opens the file for the
opponent. This gives the game a more strategic flavor.
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