MengTzu: NO to all 4. It is easy to learn a few chinese characters and you will be familiar with them after 1-2 games. I have more fun playing with original pieces. I regard special boards and pieces as an additional barrier. There are better ways to make Xiangi more popular in non-asian countries than to invent a new design.
To Thom27: Yes, we can said this way too ;) Seriuosly speaking, i think xiangqi must be learned without "western" signs. It's like learn Chinese western chess with "Ming epowue" figures....
(скрий) Ако внезапно страницата се появи на различен език, просто цъкнете върху знамето с Вашия език и всичко ще се нормализира. (pauloaguia) (покажи всички подсказки)