Kinmusou Guide: How to Use Gold Excelsior Castling
| Your Strategy | Ranging Rook |
| Opponent’s Strategy | Ranging Rook |
| Pros | Stronger against attacks from above than the Mino Castle. |
| Cons | Weaker against attacks from the sides than the Mino Castle. |
| Move count | 7 |
The Kinmusou / 金無双 (also known as Gold Excelsior or Peerless Golds) is a formation mainly used in Double Ranging Rook battles. It is strong against attacks from above but has a weakness against attacks from the side.
How To Build A Kinmusou formation
- Move the rook to your preferred file.
- Position the king in the castle’s key location.
- Place two gold generals next to the king.
- Advance the silver general to the second rank to defend against edge attacks.
- Actively advance the edge pawn.
Due to the two gold generals positioned side by side, the formation is also known as “Two Golds” or “Twin Golds.” This line of pieces provides even coverage and strengthens the defense against attacks from above.
Honestly, the Mino Castle is more popular due to its flexibility and versatility.
This is because Kinmusou is used only in Double Ranging Rook games.
When facing a Static Rook opponent, they are likely to try breaking through the 8th, 7th, and 6th files with their rook or other pieces. In such cases, the silver wall on the 2-8 square can become a hindrance, leading to a situation where the king is unable to escape.
However, for beginners who are just starting with Double Ranging Rook (where both players use Ranging Rook), Kinmusou is recommended due to its well-rounded strength against attacks from above.
In Double Ranging Rook games, where the battle often occurs around the castle, the Kinmusou formation, which is strong against attacks from above, is particularly suitable.
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