Hard Chess Puzzles

Play and solve advanced, hard, difficult and plain nasty chess puzzles for advanced chess players. You’ll find solutions and historical details and you can play each puzzle live against the computer.

diagram of Milorad Kapelan vs James Tarjan chess puzzle

Milorad Kapelan vs James Tarjan

In Vrsac, 1983, James Tarjan faced Milorad Kapelan in a game that concluded with a remarkable mating net. Black finds a way to finish the game in just four moves.

diagram of Jan Timman vs Marcel Sisniega chess puzzle

Jan Timman vs Marcel Sisniega

In Taxco, 1985, Jan Timman faced Marcel Sisniega in a game that concludes with a striking mating net. Find the four moves required for White to finish the game.

diagram of Nickolai Peregudov vs Vladimir Savon chess puzzle

Nickolai Peregudov vs Vladimir Savon

In a 1994 game from St. Petersburg, Vladimir Savon finds a way to overcome Nickolai Peregudov. Black manages to coordinate a decisive mating attack in just four moves.

diagram of Maurice Ashley vs David Arnett chess puzzle

Maurice Ashley vs David Arnett

In a 1993 New York game, Maurice Ashley found a way to force a checkmate against David Arnett. Can you find the four moves that conclude this match?

diagram of Mikhail Tal vs Igor Platonov chess puzzle

Mikhail Tal vs Igor Platonov

In 1973, Mikhail Tal faced Igor Platonov in Dubna, delivering a masterclass in attacking geometry. This puzzle asks you to find the four-move finishing touch from the legendary Magician from Riga.

diagram of Daniel Campora vs Turhan Yilmaz chess puzzle

Daniel Campora vs Turhan Yilmaz

In Dubai, 1986, Daniel Campora faced Turhan Yilmaz in a game that concluded with a striking tactical finish. White finds a way to force a mate in four moves.

diagram of Mikhail Botvinnik vs Victor Goglidze chess puzzle

Mikhail Botvinnik vs Victor Goglidze

In Moscow 1931, Mikhail Botvinnik faced Victor Goglidze in a game that features a beautiful mating pattern. Can you find the four moves required for White to finish the game?

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.