Undermining, also referred to as guard removal or defender removal, is a strategic maneuver in chess where a defensive piece is captured, thereby exposing one of the opponent’s pieces as unprotected or inadequately protected.
Month: September 2023
Variants
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Maharajah and the Sepoys: Unbalanced fun
Maharajah and the Sepoys, also known as Shatranj Diwana Shah or the Mad King’s Game, is a well-known chess variant originating in 19th century India. This variant features distinct armies for both White and Black players. Notably, the game has been solved, and it has been determined that Black possesses a guaranteed win.
Curiosities
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The oldest recorded chess game
The poem itself is structured as a chess game and is considered to be the earliest recorded instance of chess being played according to the modern rules that govern the movements of the queen and bishop pieces. In other words, the oldest recorded chess game.
Opening Theory
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Learn to attack against Nimzowitsch variant of Sicilian Defense
The Nimzowitsch Variation of the Sicilian Defense is an offbeat choice within the vast Sicilian Defense repertoire. By immediately deploying the knight to f6, Black aims to challenge White’s central control while deferring the development of other pieces.
Full Game Analysis
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Frank Poole vs. HAL 9000: I am sorry, Dave
In the 1968 science fiction film 2001: A Space Odyssey, there is a chess game between an astronaut Frank Poole and the supercomputer HAL 9000. The game is depicted as a battle of wits on a video screen serving as a chessboard. Poole, playing as White, and HAL, playing as Black, take turns making moves orally using descriptive notation and natural language.
Tricks And Traps
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Muzio Gambit Trap: Another chance to punish the greedy opponent
While the Muzio Gambit is not considered a mainstream opening at the highest levels of chess, it remains a captivating choice for those seeking excitement and a chance to test their tactical skills. It exemplifies the spirit of chess, where calculated risks and bold sacrifices can lead to extraordinary victories.
Tactical Tips
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Learn to triangulate your opponent
To master the art of triangulation, chess players must develop an intuitive understanding of endgame dynamics, precise calculation abilities, and strategic planning. Familiarity with pawn structures, king activity, and tactical patterns is essential for recognizing potential triangulation opportunities.
Curiosities
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Excelsior: Long journey to the checkmate
What’s in the name? “Excelsior,” a concise poem penned in 1841, originates from the creative mind of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem portrays a youthful protagonist journeying through a mountainous village as evening approaches. The young man carries a banner bearing the word “Excelsior,” which translates from Latin as “higher,” but also carries a broader connotation of “onward and upward.”
Opening Theory
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Learn to play Staunton Gambit against Dutch Defense
The moves 1. d4 f5 2. e4 constitute the Staunton Gambit in the Dutch Defense. This opening is also known as the Staunton Gambit Accepted.
Variants
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Cylinder Chess: Connect the edges
Cylinder Chess is a variant of standard Chess played on a regular 8×8 chessboard. It follows the same rules and uses the same pieces as standard Chess, with the only exception being the A and H columns.