game record

A game record (also called a kifu) is the record of an actual Go game. It shows the moves in the order they were played and typically includes the resulting board position, captures, and game result. Each move is recorded sequentially, usually with a move number and board coordinates or its position on a diagram. Variations and annotations may be added as well.

A game record preserves a game so it can be replayed, studied, reviewed, taught, or transmitted to other players. It is distinct from a joseki or tsumego: those present a studied pattern or problem, rather than the complete record of a game that was actually played.