The 8x8x8 playing field is a rather large battleground, and previous 3D Chess games have suffered from this fact. Octa-Ashtapada is an attempt to create a robust and enjoyable, though maybe aggravating, game for this field.
 
First, the introduction of several new 3D Chess pieces: Amazon, Cardinal, Herald, Marshall and Prince. The Amazon, Cardinal and Marshall have their origin in 2D Chess variant. They, along with the Herald which is unique to 3D Chess, combine the powerful slides with the Space Knight leap. The Prince, having its origin in Shogi, offers a new area of contention with its ability to become another King.
 
Next, the adjustment to the end-game condition. Rather than checkmating the King, the player must capture it. With the promotion of the Prince, this can create several goals for the opponent. So, promotion of the Prince will offer a great advantage. Thus, it is not necessary for the player to either avoiding or remove a threat on a King. Of course, it would be foolish to leave or place a solitary King in jeopardy.
 
The game will often begin with a battle between the various leaping power pieces. Do not be squeamish. Think of this part as the "Battle of the Titans". The wall of Pawns will give you some protection, as long as they are defended. Be willing to sacrifice a non-sliding leaper for a sliding leaper. This portion of the game could last about 100 turns. But a mistake by an opponent during this phase could result in an early win.
 
After this first phase, the player might concentrate on seperating their King and Prince, while attempting to remove the opponent's surviving Prince and promote their own.
 
A player having several Kings will greatly influence the opponent's strategy and overall structure of the game. With Pawns being able to promote to the Prince, the player has the option of introducing numerous possible Kings to the field, thus creating further complications for the opponent. Locating these Kings might be so that one opponent piece is unable to threaten them simultaneous.
 
Several power pieces offer full control of 3x3x3 and 5x5x5 areas, such as the Gargoyle and the Amazon. Utilize these to dominate portions of the playing field, controlling the flow of traffic.
 
Still, look forward to a long and difficult fight.
 
The game is won by capturing all opponent Kings.