[jurianbai]

yeah, and i think i never see chess in japan anime,manga as well.

usually in west or other chess popular country, the game passed inside family circle (parents to kid, or brothers) or in school.

btw, i just learn shogi, i think the "drop" concept is the hardest tactic to learn and anticipate.

i also read the GM Square article a few years ago, akira is also shogi player if i am not wrong.