Chess Puzzles

Interesting chess puzzles and game positions in FEN format.

If you have the full version of SparkChess, you can copy each string, paste it in the Board Editor, then click Apply to play from that position. If you just have the online version, click the "Play now" link after each puzzle.

Tip: Click on a FEN string to select it automatically.

diagram of Lajos Steiner vs Albert Becker chess puzzle

Lajos Steiner vs Albert Becker

In Vienna, 1923, Lajos Steiner faced the Austrian-Argentine master Albert Becker in a game that concluded with a sudden mating net. Find the two-move finish that ended the contest.
diagram of Leo Fleischmann vs Savielly Tartakower chess puzzle

Leo Fleischmann vs Savielly Tartakower

In 1909, Leo Fleischmann faced the legendary Savielly Tartakower in St Petersburg. White finds a way to deliver mate in four moves.
diagram of Judit Polgár vs E. Bareev chess puzzle

Judit Polgár vs E. Bareev

In a 1996 rapid game at the Kremlin PCA, Judit Polgar finds a way to overwhelm Evgeny Bareev. White delivers a quick finishing blow that leaves Black with no escape.
diagram of Paul Morphy vs NN chess puzzle

Paul Morphy vs NN

In a 1858 simultaneous exhibition in New Orleans, the American legend Paul Morphy demonstrates his mastery against an anonymous opponent. Find the forced checkmate in four moves.
diagram of Tigran V. Petrosian vs Rudi Koepsell chess puzzle

Tigran V. Petrosian vs Rudi Koepsell

In Brilon, 1978, the legendary Tigran V. Petrosian faced Rudi Koepsell in a game that concludes with a striking mating pattern. Find the three moves required for White to finish the game.
diagram of Gerardo Lebredo vs Tigran V Petrosian chess puzzle

Gerardo Lebredo vs Tigran V Petrosian

In Vilnius 1978, Tigran V Petrosian faced Gerardo Lebredo with a decisive opportunity. Black finds a way to force a mate in four moves.
diagram of Sofia Polgar vs Rumiana Gocheva chess puzzle

Sofia Polgar vs Rumiana Gocheva

In Novi Sad during 1990, Sofia Polgar found a way to finish the game against Rumiana Gocheva. White possesses a decisive mating pattern that requires careful calculation.
diagram of Siegbert Tarrasch vs Arthur Kurschner chess puzzle

Siegbert Tarrasch vs Arthur Kurschner

In Nuremberg 1889, Siegbert Tarrasch faced off against Arthur Kurschner in a game defined by a swift conclusion. White finds a way to force a mate in four moves.