How to Play Chess

Learn the basic rules and strategies of the world’s most famous strategy game.

Basic Rules

1
Objective: The goal of Chess is to checkmate your opponent’s king — putting it under attack with no escape.
2
Setup: The board is an 8×8 grid with alternating light and dark squares. Each player starts with 16 pieces: one king, one queen, two rooks, two knights, two bishops, and eight pawns.
3
Movement: Each type of piece moves differently. Pawns move forward but capture diagonally, knights move in an ‘L’ shape, bishops move diagonally, rooks move straight, the queen moves in all directions, and the king moves one square in any direction.
4
Special Rules: Special moves include castling (king and rook move together), en passant (a pawn capture rule), and pawn promotion (a pawn reaching the opposite side can become any piece except a king).
5
Winning: You win by checkmating the opponent’s king. Draws are also possible in certain conditions.

Best Strategies to Win at Chess

1
Control the Center: Place your pawns and pieces toward the center of the board to control important squares and allow better mobility.
2
Develop Your Pieces: Move your knights and bishops early to active squares. Avoid moving the same piece multiple times in the opening.
3
Protect Your King: Castle early to move your king to safety and connect your rooks for better defense and coordination.
4
Think Ahead: Plan your moves by considering your opponent’s possible responses. Good players think several moves in advance.
5
Endgame Technique: In the endgame, use your king actively and learn basic checkmating patterns to secure victory.

About Chess

Chess, is one of the oldest and most strategic board games ever created. Played on an 8×8 grid, it challenges players to use tactics, foresight, and creativity to achieve victory.

Originating in India around the 6th century, Chess has evolved into the world’s most popular strategy game, played casually, online, and in professional tournaments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Chess

How many players can play Chess?

Chess is played between two players. One controls the white pieces, and the other controls the black pieces.

Who makes the first move in Chess?

The player with the white pieces always moves first.

Can a game of Chess end in a draw?

Yes. Chess can end in a draw in several ways, such as stalemate, insufficient material, or a threefold repetition.

What is checkmate?

Checkmate occurs when a king is in check and cannot escape capture on the next move. The game ends immediately.

How long does a Chess game usually last?

It depends on the players and time controls. Casual games may last 10–30 minutes, while professional games can last for hours.

Does playing chess improve IQ?

Yes, playing chess exercises the brain, which improves thinking and understanding skills and can also enhance IQ.

What is the weakest piece in chess?

The pawn (♙, ♟) is the weakest and most frequently used piece in chess. It moves one square forward (two squares on its first move) and captures diagonally.

What is the old name of chess?

The old name of chess is 'Chaturanga.' It originated in ancient India and is considered the earliest form of modern chess. Chaturanga means 'four divisions of the army' – infantry, cavalry, elephants, and chariots.

Is chess good for the brain?

Yes, chess is considered very beneficial for the brain.

What happens if you play chess every day?

Playing chess daily improves thinking power, problem-solving ability, and sharpens the mind.

What is the quickest way to win a chess game?

A chess game can be won quickly by delivering checkmate. The fastest checkmate is 'Fool’s Mate' (in just 2 moves) and another well-known one is 'Scholar’s Mate' (in 4 moves).

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