Triangulation in Chess Endgames: Losing a Move to Win
Discover triangulation in king and pawn endgames: how to move your king in a triangle to pass the turn back to your opponent and gain opposition.
The LocalChess Blog
Guides, tips, and behind-the-scenes notes on chess and the game engine that powers LocalChess.
The Trompowsky Attack: Offbeat Pressure Against 1.d4
Master the Trompowsky Attack (1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5), pinning Black's knight on move two and bypassing heavy theoretical memory.
Vasily Smyslov: Intuitive Harmony and Endgame Perfection
Discover 7th World Champion Vasily Smyslov's harmonious piece coordination and master-level endgame execution.
The Wrong-Color Bishop and Corner Pawn Endgame Explained
Learn why having a bishop of the wrong color regarding the corner promotion square guarantees a draw for the defending king.
What is Zugzwang in Chess? Examples and Endgame Applications
Understand Zugzwang, the tactical state where any move a player makes worsens their position. Learn real endgame examples.
Chess Openings for Beginners: A Complete Guide
New to chess? Discover the best chess openings for beginners. Learn key opening principles, basic moves, and how to start your games with absolute confidence.
How to Win at Chess: 10 Essential Tips
Want to improve your chess game and start winning? Explore these 10 essential tips, from basic tactics to key strategic concepts, to beat your opponents.
The Scholar's Mate: How to Do It and How to Defend It
Learn how to execute and defend against the famous 4-move Scholar's Mate in chess. Master this essential beginner tactic and never get caught off guard.
En Passant in Chess: The Rule Explained with Examples
En passant lets a pawn capture an enemy pawn that just moved two squares, landing beside it. The three conditions, worked examples, notation, and why it exists.
How to Castle in Chess: Rules and Best Practices
Learn the rules of castling in chess. Discover how to execute kingside and queenside castling, and understand the requirements for this special move.
Understanding Chess Piece Values: A Strategic Overview
Master chess piece values and learn how to make smart trades. Discover the relative strength of pawns, knights, bishops, rooks, and queens.
What is Stalemate in Chess? Difference Between Stalemate and Checkmate
Learn what stalemate is in chess. Understand the crucial differences between stalemate and checkmate, and how to avoid accidental draws.