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How to Play Chess: Lessons from an International Master

Series: Great Courses
4.7
(348)
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Episodes
24
Rating
TVPG
Year
2015
Language
English
Publisher
The Great Courses

About

Chess is a sport, a science, and an art. The fun of the game is that anyone can play, and there is always something more to learn-especially with the right guide. From the basics of the game to advanced strategy and tactics, and everything in between, How to Play Chess: Lessons from an International Master is any chess enthusiast's opportunity to enhance your understanding of the game.

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Episodes

1 to 3 of 24

1. The World of Chess

30m

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From kings and queens to ordinary workers, from family living rooms and local chess parlors to online gamers around the world, chess is a truly universal pastime. Discover the basics of the game, what each piece is worth and how it moves, and the mathematical notation that allows people to connect across social class, language barriers, and national boundaries.

2. Secrets of the Pawns and Knights

30m

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Although humble, pawns are the most complex pieces on the chessboard. Meanwhile, the leaping knights are perhaps the strangest pieces. Learn how these two pieces move and what strategies to employ with them to control the board. Look at a few situations that test what you've learned.

3. Castling, Checkmate, Chess Engines, Draws

30m

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Complete your review of the basics of chess-including how to castle, the difference between checkmate and stalemate, and the etiquette of play. Then shift your attention to the mythic side of the game and find out about simultaneous exhibitions, blindfolded play, and chess computers.

4. Must-Know Tactical Patterns in Chess

30m

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Build your arsenal of tactical skills by looking for winning patterns on the board. After covering three go-to punches-pins, skewers, and forks-Mr. Silman turns to decoys, double attacks, discovered attacks, and more. Armed with these patterns of play, you now have a major tactical advantage.

5. Chess Combinations and Kings in Check

30m

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Continue your study of patterns-this time with combination moves that require crafty calculations. Whether you're wondering when (and why) to sacrifice a piece, or you're looking to trap kings in tight corners, or you simply want to unleash a torrent of carnage on the board, the tactics from this lesson will help you become a more formidable player.

6. Checkmate! Back-Rank, Smothered, and More

30m

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Delve into the world of "piece collaboration" -using two or more pieces to win a checkmate. Mr. Silman shows you a number of classic mates that have delighted fans for generations. Not only are these mating patterns flashy and exciting, they will also give you a far deeper understanding of the game as a whole.

Extended Details

  • Closed CaptionsEnglish

Artists

Jeremy Silmanwriter

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