I think this has been somewhat confused.

In both Go and Shogi black ="Sente" has the first move and the first notation in the protocol etc. (white ="Gote")

Sente actually means "the first move".

The real japanese word for black is "Kuroi".

In Go, black was considered to have the advantage (moving first) so the komi rule was introduced (reducing 2 1/2 points from black's score after the game was finished) this changed certain opening strategies, which is why "kosumi" is only found in old go game that predate the rule.

In Shogi, black is also considered to have a (very small) advantage, however in certain openings and handicap games black (the first mover) is at a disadvantage, like the aigakari static-rook opening where black can fall for the classic bishop trap.

Handicap-Shogi is also quite popular at the shogidojo24.

By the way according to the Chess Grandmaster "Adorjan" from Hungary, black has the advantage, he has released two books explaining why Black is better than White (in Chess). He says we think white is better because of the psychological implications of the word "White" (=positve, pure, clean, etc.) etc.

Even Fischer has been quoted as saying that black is better, also world-champion Karpov never played 1.e4 ever again after losing his title to Kasparov in their 1.e4-c5 games =)

Some shogi master's think the kakugawari opening will die because black gives away a tempo to white, so one day white will find a winning strategy and kill the opening, but I don't believe that. =)

/Nico