Black

Black is the side that plays the black stones in a game of Go and normally makes the first move. The term identifies one of the two opposing sides, distinguishing Black’s stones, moves, and territory from White’s.

Black places black stones on board intersections, while White responds by placing white stones. “Black” describes a side or color designation, not a particular move, stone shape, or level of playing strength. In a handicap game, Black may receive several initial stones before normal play begins, so the move order differs from an even game.