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The Chess Endgame - SummaryThe following example demonstrates the chess player's thinking process in the endgame : WHITE : Kg2, Rd5, Be3, Pa6, Pb5, Pc4, Pg3, Ph2 BLACK : Kg8, Ra8, Bg7, Pa7, Pb6, Pc5, Pg6, Ph7 The material is equal and one might expect this endgame to be drawn. However, WHITE is able to win. The rook on d5 is active, while Ra8 is passively placed. In addition the Be3 is good, because the blocked black pawns are potential targets for him, while Bg7 is bad, only able to defend his own pawns. The kingside pawns are not taken into account in this stage, since they are not blocked and can be 'whitened' (moved to white squares) if needed. If WHITE was able to simplify this position by exchanging rooks, his task would be much easier. BLACK would then have no rook counterplay and he would be doomed. So WHITE's plans is to exchange the rooks, then attack the black pawns. The black bishop can not do much either and the white king is able to traverse the board and attack the weak b6-pawn with Kc6 and Bc7. Note that he does not count any variations, just mentally positions his pieces. Also note that he needs not move too quickly. It is always good practice to strengthen one's position, if possible, before actually performing the plan. Accordingly, WHITE should first play g3-g4 and h2-h3, ensuring white squares for his pawns (just in case), and then proceed to place his king on c6. Bc7 follows and the b6-pawn will be captured, the c5-pawn coming next. The three free white pawns are easy to promote. Indeed, some of the moves made are not necessary, but this example illustrates how one should organize his pieces to make the most advantages in the chess endgame to cement his position and win the game. To read more about chess and how to play well, you can return to the Chess Homepage, by clicking here
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