Advanced tactics can take your game to the next level in chess.
Basic chess tactics such as forks, pins, and skewers are well-known.
Here we look at some of these advanced tactics to help you improve your chess skills.
1. The Power of Zugzwang
Zugzwang is a German term that translates to “compulsion to move.
It refers to a situation where any move a player makes weakens their position.
This tactic can be used to force your opponent into making unfavorable moves, leading to a strategic advantage for you.
By creating zugzwang positions, you can limit your opponent’s options and force them into making mistakes.
2. The Power of Sacrifice
Sacrifices are a powerful tool in chess, allowing you to gain a positional or material advantage by giving up something of value.
Sacrifices can disrupt your opponent’s plans, create weaknesses in their position, or open up lines for your pieces to penetrate.
Example #1
For example, in the position below, the black bishop checks the white king and sacrifices itself to the white knight.
The white knight takes, given its the optimal move in the scenario.
This leaves the rook open to capture the other rook, and white has no offsetting compensation.
Subsequently, black can sacrifice that look to open up lines where it can take the remaining knight and clear the f and h pawns, to open up its own h-pawn for promotion .
Of course, white can also refuse the sacrifice and accept the pawn loss without compensation.
Black has an edge of approximately -9.00 in this position.
This clears the way for forced mate-in-10 for black.
Example #2
A sacrifice is a type of advanced tactic that gives up material for some type of other compensation.
For example, in the position below, white sacrifices its bishop to force the king to stop protecting the queen.
The king takes.
Then the rook takes without being taken back.
This allows white to grab 9 points of material (the queen) for just 3 (the bishop) instead of 5 (giving up the rook).
It also immediately attacks the f7 pawn.
3. The Power of Prophylaxis
Prophylaxis is a defensive strategy that aims to prevent your opponent’s plans and counter their threats.
By anticipating your opponent’s moves and taking preventive measures, you can maintain a solid position and limit your opponent’s options.
4. The Power of Calculation
Calculation is a crucial skill in chess, especially in advanced tactics.
It involves analyzing multiple moves ahead and evaluating different variations to determine the best course of action.
By improving your calculation abilities, you can accurately assess complex positions and make informed decisions.
5. Forks
Forking pieces, especially with check, is an extremely powerful tactic.
For example, a less skill player in this position would not check the king but rather choose to take the “free pawn” on b2.
The white rook would then take the bishop.
The black rook would take back.
And produce a fork on the rook and king. The black king can’t capture the bishop due to the white knight.
The blunder taking the seemingly free pawn turns a -6.30 advantage for black into an even game for white.
This is why calculation is so important in chess.
FAQs – Advanced Tactics in Chess
1. What is zugzwang in chess?
Zugzwang is a situation in chess where any move a player makes weakens their position.
It can be used to force opponents into making unfavorable moves and gain a strategic advantage.
2. How can sacrifices be beneficial in chess?
Sacrifices in chess can help gain positional or material advantages by giving up something of value.
They can disrupt opponents’ plans, create weaknesses in their position, or open up lines for your pieces to penetrate.
3. What is prophylaxis in chess?
Prophylaxis is a defensive strategy in chess that aims to prevent opponents’ plans and counter their threats.
It involves anticipating opponents’ moves and taking preventive measures to maintain a solid position.
4. Why is calculation important in chess?
Calculation is crucial in chess as it involves analyzing multiple moves ahead and evaluating different variations to determine the best course of action.
It helps accurately assess complex positions and make informed decisions.
5. Can you provide an example of a famous sacrifice in chess?
One famous sacrifice in chess is the “Greek Gift Sacrifice,” where a bishop is sacrificed on h7 (or h2 for Black) to expose the opponent’s king and launch a devastating attack.
The sacrificed bishop is often supported by other pieces to maximize the impact (most notable a queen and sometimes a knight).
6. How can I improve my calculation skills in chess?
To improve calculation skills in chess, practice solving tactical puzzles, analyze grandmaster games, and play against strong opponents.
Regularly reviewing and evaluating your own games can also help enhance your calculation abilities.
7. Are advanced tactics suitable for beginners?
While advanced tactics can be challenging for beginners, understanding and studying them can still be beneficial.
It helps develop a deeper understanding of chess principles and prepares beginners for more advanced gameplay as they progress.
8. Can prophylaxis be used in all stages of the game?
Yes, prophylaxis can be used in all stages of the game. It is particularly useful in positions where opponents are planning aggressive moves or creating threats.
Prophylactic thinking helps maintain a solid position and limit opponents’ options.
9. How can I create zugzwang positions in my games?
To create zugzwang positions, focus on limiting your opponent’s options and forcing them into unfavorable moves.
This can be achieved by controlling key squares, restricting piece mobility, and creating threats that force your opponent to make weakening moves.
10. Are sacrifices always successful in chess?
No, sacrifices are not always successful in chess.
They require accurate calculation and evaluation of various lines to ensure a favorable outcome.
It is essential to assess the potential risks and rewards before making a sacrifice.
Summary – Advanced Tactics in Chess
Advanced tactics in chess can significantly enhance your gameplay and give you a competitive edge.
By understanding the power of zugzwang, sacrifices, prophylaxis, and calculation, you can outmaneuver your opponents and achieve victory.
Remember to analyze positions carefully, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and make informed decisions.
With practice and study, you can master these advanced tactics and become a formidable chess player.
