When playing against the French Defense, sometimes f4 is played before Nf3, and sometimes Nf3 is played directly. In some variations, it’s a matter of preference, and at other times the position dictates a specific course of action. More 🡢
This game is a great example that shows how the power of the bishop pair increases as the game opens up, especially when there is play on both sides of the board. We have also included several powerful teaching points about pawn structure. More 🡢
A sharp confrontation that leads to several unexpected moves and sacrifice of material in exchange for extreme square control. More 🡢
Time, space, and force are the fundamental building blocks we work with in chess. This article is focused on the value of time. In the future, we’ll write separate articles on space and force. More 🡢
White makes an early strategic error. As a result, Black is able to sacrifice his queen, and place White’s king in a mating net. More 🡢
If the main reason you play chess is because you want to have fun, then just play the openings you find interesting and exciting. In that case, the Open Sicilian will keep you entertained for several lifetimes.
On the other hand, if you’re serious about wanting to improve, then developing an opening repertoire will become an important part of your campaign. More 🡢
Do your best to understand the implications of your moves. This will take you a long way towards mastery. More 🡢
This is the third article in a 3 part series on the Powers of the Knight. The first two articles are called The Mysterious Powers of the Knight, and How to Build a Solid Post for Your Knight. It will be a challenge to find a more highly distilled, yet comprehensive treatment of this powerful piece, and we highly recommend you read the two companion articles. More 🡢
Learning the rules of chess can be accomplished in one day. There are six different chessmen. Master how each moves and captures, and use them to checkmate your opponents, to succeed in your chess games.
The best way to learn is by playing! Right here on SparkChess you can play against different computer personas (start with Cody if you never played before). The game will highlight all valid moves for a piece, so it's easy to understand and learn the rules. Then you can move to learning strategies and openings with SparkChess Premium, which features an Opening Explorer with over 100 opening variations, 30 interactive lessons and even an AI coach.
While learning chess online is efficient, since software corrects illegal moves, playing chess with others in person can be satisfying. You and a friend or family member could tackle chess together, perhaps reading the rules in a book. Playing on a three-dimensional chess set can be a fun break from our online lives. When in-person chess is not available, SparkChess has online multiplayer for playing with friends (and making new ones).
While learning chess rules takes one day, becoming good at chess takes longer. One proverb states, “Chess is a sea in which a gnat may drink and an elephant may bathe.” With intense efforts, chess greatness can be achieved.