Hiki

Hiki, meaning “pull back” or “retreat,” is a fundamental move in Go used to step away from direct contact while maintaining flexibility. It’s often played after an attachment (tsuke), when a player wants to reinforce their shape.

While pulling back might seem passive at first glance, it’s actually a strategic way to retain control, strengthen a group, or set the stage for counterplay in a larger battle. The effectiveness of hiki depends heavily on timing and the surrounding position. Retreating too early might concede too much influence, while delaying it could lead to unnecessary complications or weaknesses.

In essence, hiki is a subtle yet powerful tool that balances defense and preparation, allowing players to build a solid foundation for their strategy.