Game of Go

Developed in China over 3,000 years ago, Go is among the world's oldest games.

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The game of Go is probably the oldest intellectual game in the world. First developed in China over three thousand years ago, the game was introduced to Japan in the eighth century and has since enjoyed ever increasing popularity. Today it commands a vast and enthusiastic following, with a large number of Japanese masters whose skill probably surpasses that ever attained in China, where there is no longer much knowledge or interest in the game. In the last few decades there has been a growing interest in the game outside Japan as an increasing number of Westerners have discovered the fascination of Go. The game of Go belongs to the class of games which chess, though quite dissimilar, is an example. It is a game of pure skill with little room for the element of chance to enter. Arthur Smith was one of the first Westerners to make a scientific study of the game Go, and his classic work has never been surpassed for completeness, lucidity, and all-around excellence. The present volume is photographically reproduced from the now rare original edition of 1908. A glossary of Japanese terms used in the game has been inserted at the end of the volume for added convenience.