Zugzwang: When Every Move Leads to Trouble

 

Zugzwang Explained: A Chess Resource Guide 

Feeling forced to make a bad move? In chess, that's Zugzwang!

This guide equips you with valuable resources to understand and practice Zugzwang, from in-depth articles and interactive puzzles to instructive game analyses and insightful video lessons.

Zugzwang Wikipedia Page 

 Good sized page on this topic with history and examples.

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BOOKS (FREE)

• Zugzwang - Chess Tactics -9 page PDF ) I Believe this is a chapter from some book.
  
  
• Chess zugzwang puzzles 1 to 10 - 8 page PDF

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Zugzwang Chess Articles: Sharpen Your Tactics

Dive into strategy guides, tackle challenging puzzles, and witness the power of Zugzwang in action through analyzed games.

• What is Zugzwang and How Can You Win Chess Games With This Idea - Nice Article (In Depth) - It covers strategies on how to induce Zugzwang, provides examples from famous games, and explains related terms like zwischenzug (intermediate move), highlighting their importance in chess tactics and endgames.
  
  
• Zugzwang Article - by GM Julio Becerra on Chess.com -  showing you the “Zugzwang Immortal Game” between Saemisch-Nimzowitsch
  
  
• Chess Puzzles: The Art of Zugzwang - Article by GM Lubomir Kavalek - 3 Famous Puzzles to Solve.
  
  
• Zugzwang in Chess (The Beginner’s Guide) - Chessable Blog Guide (In-Depth) - really extensive Guide showing many places in chess where this concept has to be considered.
  
  
• Zugzwang in Chess: Everything You Need To Know - Article w/ Embedded Video Lesson
  
  
• Zugzwang: How It Works and Why It Matters in Chess - GM Igor Smirnov - Nice solid easy to understand Article.

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ZugZwang LiChess Studies

Put your Zugzwang understanding to the test with this collection of interactive Lichess studies! 

• Zugzwang Hard and Nice Puzzles - 13 Chapter - Interactive Study
  
  
• Zugzwang.Exercises - 11 Chapter -  Interactive Study
  
  
• Paul Morphy zugzwang puzzle variations - 18 Chapter - Interactive Study
  
  
• Zugzwang: Endgame - 11 Chapter - K&P Endgame Puzzles

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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Game Databases

Delve into the world of real-life Zugzwang with these curated game collections:

Chessgames.com 

• Collection of 34 Games - extraordinary examples featuring Zugzwang from 
  
  
• Zugzwang Greats !! - 36 Games

By studying these games, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how Zugzwang manifests in real-world chess scenarios. You'll observe how grandmasters create Zugzwang situations, exploit their opponent's limitations, and ultimately secure victory.

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Tactics

Sharpen your tactical vision 

Lichess Tactics Trainer

•  ZugZwang Puzzles - 26,262 Puzzles
  
  

By consistently practicing Zugzwang puzzles on Lichess, you'll develop the ability to identify these situations in your own games and exploit them for a winning advantage. So, dive in and start honing those tactics!

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Zugzang Chess Video Lessons

What is Zugzwang In Chess? 🎓 Beginner Chess Lessons - GM Damian Lemos - 15 Min - Damian tackles a topic that can be crucial in chess games, but is often overlooked by beginners: Zugzwang.

What Is "Zugzwang" In Chess? - 5 Min - NM Nelson Lopez - In this video I show an example from a recent game where I achieved zugzwang on my opponent.  
Chess.com: Endgame Technique; Zugzwang - 4 Min - GM Friedel analyzes what could be a very difficult endgame. But with the application of the principle of zugzwang, he is able to make everything clear.

Chess Endgames: Using Zugzwang!  -8 Min Video (by IM Kostya Kavutskiy) - Kostya Kavutskiy brings us an interesting example of Zugzwang in the endgame!

Saemich vs Nimzovich (1923) - 10 min Video -Kingscrusher.

   (The Immortal Zugzwang Game)

  Video Below

Alekhine - Nimzowitsch - 11 Min Video (With a Zugzwang Theme) - Great zugzwang ending

Rook vs Pawn Endgame Study - (1928 Reti Endgame Study) - For having so few pieces, it is really a fantastic piece which showcases opposition, zugzwang, and king shouldering. If you can master this ending you will have no problem with most Rook vs. Pawn positions!

Most Incredible Zugzwang Of All Time?! - 22Min - IM Danny Rensch - IM Danny Rensch as he breaks down this epic game between Stoofvlees and Stockfish during the 15th Computer Chess Championship

Zwischenzug (Intermezzo): The Surprise Weapon in Your Chess Arsenal

"When you see a good move, look for a better one." - Emanuel Lasker

 
Zwischenzug Chess Resources

Have you ever been outmaneuvered in chess, feeling like your opponent pulled a rabbit out of a hat?

That surprise move might have been a Zwischenzug (pronounced "tvee-SHEN-tsoog"), also known as intermezzo, a powerful chess tactic that throws a curveball into your opponent's plans.

  Instead of making the expected move, like capturing a piece, a Zwischenzug inserts an unexpected move that creates a new threat or disrupts your strategy. Mastering this tactic will transform you from a predictable player to a cunning strategist, allowing you to exploit unexpected opportunities and gain a significant advantage.

Zwischenzug Wikipedia page
 With explanations and examples

German "in-between move". An unexpected move tossed into an expected series of moves.

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BOOKS (FREE)

ZWISCHENZUG – GERMAN; INTERMEZZO; ITALIAN IN-BETWEEN MOVE - 2 Page PDF Handout - Couple Examples w/ 6 Puzzles

Chess Tactics and Combinations - 84 Page PDF - Exeter Chess Club - Short Violent Games of Chess Organized by Theme. (Page 34 Intermezzo)

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Zwischenzug Chess Articles 

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Zwischenzug with informative articles that explain the concept, showcase examples, and offer strategic insights.

• Chess Tactics Simplified: The Zwischenzug! - Nice Article with Examples at Bottom
  
  
• ZWISCHENZUG: THE TACTICAL PATTERN THAT CAN SAVE YOU - Article with examples
  
  
• Tactics 101: The Incredible Intermezzo (a.k.a. Zwischenzug) - Nice Article
  
  
• Zwischenzug: An Unexpected Tactic of Grandmasters - The Chess Journal Article
  
  
• Zwischenzug - Chess Kid Article w/ Embedded Video
  
  
• Zwischenzug – the intermediate move - Chessbase Article - Nice Explanation w/ 8 Annotated games with this tactic. (Nice)

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Annotated Game Databases

Analyze real-world applications of Zwischenzug by studying annotated games from renowned players, featuring both winning and defensive maneuvers.

 FM Asa Hoffman vs NM Jim West - From Jim West's Blog (Annotated by both players)

Chessgames.com

• Chess Games with a Zwischenzug - 43 games (Some nicely annotated games here)
• Chess Games with a Zwischenzug -  14 Games
• In-Between Move Tactic-- OTB Examples - 25 Games 

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Lichess Studys

Test your newfound knowledge and sharpen your tactical vision with interactive LiChess studies that present a variety of Zwischenzug scenarios.

• LiChess Zwischenzug Study - LiChess Basic Tactics Area 
  
  
• Zwischenzug - 9 Chapter Study w/ Instruction - Well Done
  
  
• Intermediate: Tactics Internalized - Zwischenzug - 5 Chapter Interactive Study
  
  
• In between/ Zwischenzug/ Intermezzo - 29 Chapter Study -  All Positions
  
  
• The Intermezzo Practice Set - 26 Chapter Interactive Study - Broken into Themes - Save, Sacrifice, Threaten and Trade

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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Zwischenzug Puzzles

Put your skills to the test with challenging puzzles designed to hone your ability to identify and execute Zwischenzug opportunities.

ChessGo.in

• Intermezzo Puzzles - 72 Puzzles (Broken into 8 Pages - by Difficulty) Printable

LiChess Puzzles

• Intermezzo - 55,425 Puzzles
  
  

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Zwishenzug Video Lessons

Learn from the best! Renowned chess instructors take center stage in video lessons, offering clear explanations and practical guidance on mastering Zwischenzug.

• Zwischenzug – Winning with in-between moves - 20 Min - A very important tactical motif in the middlegame – the zwischenzug.
  
  
• The Volatility of In-Between Moves - 9 Min  IM John Bartholomew -  Game between IM Jha Sriram and GM Rajaram Laxman (from the excellent book "Mastering Chess Strategy" by GM Johan Hellsten)
  
  
• Chess Lesson # 44: Zwischenzug | Learn & Master In-between Moves | Intermezzo | Intermediate Moves - 14 Min NM Rober Ramirez - In this lesson, you will learn this tactic and then apply your knowledge by solving some exercises.
  
  
• Zwischenzug | Can you find the solutions to these five positions? - 15 min - GM Daniel King gives you five puzzle positions to solve. (New 6/20/2024)

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St. Louis Chess Club Videos

• Chess for Beginners with GM Ronen Har-Zvi (Intermediate Moves | Forcing Moves) - 32 Min - Discusses intermediate and forcing moves in chess, focusing on the concept of intermediate moves. He uses puzzles to illustrate how these moves can be used to gain material advantage.
  
  
• In-Between Moves and Zwischenzugs - WGM Jennifer Shahade -53 Min - Explores in-between moves in a lecture for intermediate level players.
  
  
• Zwischenzug | Puzzler's Paradise - IM Vitaly Neimer -  35 Min - International Master Vitaly Neimer presents puzzles with a theme of zwischenzug
  
  
• Intermezzo: Put Your Plans on Hold! | Beginner Breakdown -  61 Min - Talks about the Zwischenzug, also known as an "intermezzo" or "intermediate move," which describes a move that is played instead of and before the expected move and poses an immediate threat that the opponent must answer.

Game Video's w/ Analysis

Chess Tactics: Zwischenzug: Lichtenhein vs Morphy - 5 Min

Zwischenzug! || Nakamura vs Carlsen - 10 Min

Evans Gambit (C51-C52): A Dynamic Weapon for White

 

The Ultimate Evans Gambit
 Resource Hub
 Tactics, Games, and More

The Evans Gambit (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. b4) is an aggressive chess opening that arises from the Giuoco Piano.

White offers a pawn to disrupt Black's development and gain a lasting advantage in the center. The resulting positions are sharp and tactical, favoring players who enjoy dynamic play.

Elevate your game with our collection of Evans Gambit resources.
  From classic games to modern analysis, our archive provides everything you need to master this aggressive opening.

Wikipedia Page 

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 Bc5 4. b4

Bishop's Bounty Giuoco Piano Page

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BOOKS  & Courses (Free)

Short & Sweet: Kalyan's Italian Game Free Chessable Course - 11 Trainable Variations - GM Arjun Kalyun - Whatever type of game you're looking for - the Italian has it - quiet, safe, tactical, daring, simple, and complex. This course offers 11 trainable variations to equip you with a well-rounded understanding of the opening.

Short & Sweet: Krykun's Italian Game - Free Chessable Course  - IM Krykun guides you through the critical moves, standard structures, and must-know strategies in the Italian Game. All packed in just 20 core lines and 1 hour and 12 minutes of video-sync instruction.

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Evans Gambit Articles

Dive Deep into Dynamic Play:
Sharpen your understanding of the Evans Gambit with these insightful articles

A Rare Appearance From the Evans Gambit - Chess.com Article GM Short vs. GM L'Ami

The Conquest Attack in the Evans Gambit Declined- Kenilworth CC - (Archived Article)

The Evans Gambit at Simplify Chess -  Embark on a move-by-move exploration of the main lines in this gambit. Gain a deep understanding of how to effectively wield this dynamic opening as White.

Evan’s Gambit Theory (Accepted and Declined) | A Definitive Guide - Nice Guide at RagChess offers a comprehensive guide to the Evans Gambit, including ideas, common mistakes, and the main lines for both the Accepted and Declined variations.

Welcome to the Evans Gambit - Website devoted to the Evans. While this website might be archived, it still offers valuable historical context and explanations of the Evans Gambit's main lines. (Archived)

Evans Gambit – How to Play as White and Black - Chessable Blog Opening Guide (In-depth) - Chessable's in-depth blog guide delves into strategies for both sides of the Evans Gambit. Learn how to maximize your chances as White and handle the gambit effectively as Black.

GM Boris Altermans Blog (Annotated games)
Evans Gambit Pt 1 - Annotated Fischer,Robert James - Boatner,J [C51]
Evans Gambit Pt 2 - Annotated Fischer,Robert James - Fine,Reuben
Evans Gambit Pt 3 - Annotated Morphy,Paul - Hampton,Thomas Inglis 
Evans Gambit Pt 4 - Annotated Morphy,Paul - De Riviere,Jules Arnou
Evans Gambit Pt 5 - Annotated Morphy,Paul - Morphy,Alonzo

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Evans Gambit LiChess Studies

Sharpen your Evans Gambit skills with these interactive learning experiences on Lichess:

• The Evans Gambit  - 25 Chapter Study (Very Indepth) (150 hearts) Dive deep with this comprehensive study featuring detailed lines, defenses, and expert instruction.
  
  
• Evans Gambit🔋🔌, Updated - 10 Chapter Study (250 Hearts) - Master key Black responses after move 5 with this highly rated study.
  
  
• Evans Gambit (Anderson Variation) - 5 Chapter Study  (Variation for Black)
  
  
• Kota's Evans Gambit Guide - 7 Chapter Study - Get a solid foundation in the Evans Gambit with this study covering the basics and several variations with model games.
  
  
• Black vs the Evans Gambit - 7 Chapter Study   (Black Variations)  Learn how to handle the Evans Gambit effectively as Black, focusing on the Lasker Defense Lines and featuring model games between Grandmasters.
  
  
• Evans Interactive Simulator -  14 Chapter Interactive Study This interactive study allows you to explore the Evans Gambit move-by-move, testing your understanding of opening principles, tactics, and positional ideas. (Great for beginners on Lichess studies!)

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

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Games Databases

Chessgames.com

Evans Gambit (C51) 1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 Bc4 Bc5 4 b4 - 1687 Games
Evans Gambit (C52) 1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 Bc4 Bc5 4 b4 Bxb4 5 c3 Ba5 - 1101 Games
 
Game Collections
(Curated Collections of games below on Chessgames.com )

Evans Gambit [White] - 23 Games (All White Wins)
White - Evan's Gambit: Morphy - 19 Games (All White Morphy games)

EVANS GAMBIT DECLINED - 19 Games
EVANS GAMBIT ACCEPTED GTM - 30 Games (Nice Collection )
Modern Masters play the Evans Gambit - 12 Games
 
Evans Gambit History and Repertoire - 26 Games (Compiled by Kenilworthian)

365Chess.com 

• C51: Evans gambit declined 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. b4  - 3812 Games
  
  
• C52: Evans gambit 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. b4 Bxb4 5. c3 Ba5 - 1530 Games

ChessTempo.com

• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Anderssen Variation (C51) - 425 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Anderssen Variation Cordel Line (C51) - 725 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Declined (C51) - 621 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, MacDonnell Defense (C51) - 254 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, MacDonnell Defense Main Line (C51) - 164 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Stone-Ware Variation (C51) - 248 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Main Line (C52) - 1955 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Slow Variation (C52) - 240 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Tartakower Attack (C52) - 419 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Pierce Defense (C52) - 306 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Mieses Defense (C52) - 232 Games
  
  
• Italian Game, Evans Gambit, Anderssen Defense (C52) - 145 Games

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Chess Puzzles 

Test your attacking prowess and defensive skills with these Evans Gambit puzzles:

LiChess Opening Puzzles

• ITALIAN GAME: EVANS GAMBIT DECLINED - 379 Puzzles
  
  
• ITALIAN GAME: EVANS GAMBIT - 2676 Puzzles

WTHarvey.com

• Evans Gambit (ECO C51) - 6 Puzzles

Chess puzzles from the Evans Gambit (ECO C51) - 8 Puzzles from OTB Games

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Evan's Gambit Video Lessons 

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of the Evans Gambit with this comprehensive video library:

Learn The Ultimate Chess Opening || The Evans Gambit! - 30 Min  agadmantor- Explore the core concepts and attacking potential of the Evans Gambit.
The Evans Gambit | Italian Game Theory - 36 Mins Hanging Pawns

Evans Gambit for the new generation - 17 Min GM Simon Williams

Attacking Ideas in the Evans Gambit - 25 Min GM Igor Smirnov - Sharpen your attacking skills with a Grandmaster guide to tactical opportunities in the Evans Gambit.

Chess Openings: Evans Gambit Accepted! - 40 Min IM  Miodrag Perunovic - In-depth analysis of the Evans Gambit Accepted, a chess opening that is considered one of the most interesting and reliable gambits.

How To Play The Evan's Gambit | Grandmaster Repertoire - 31 Min GM Moulthun - Learn key ideas and main lines directly from a Grandmaster's perspective.

Evan's Gambit: Chess Opening Strategy, Tactics, Tricks, Traps & Ideas | Best Moves to Win Fast - 10 Min - Get a quick overview of strategies, tactics, and common traps in the Evans Gambit.

Crazy Crab Chess

This comprehensive series by Crazy Crab Chess delves deep into the Evans Gambit, covering theory, strategy, and tactics. (Total Time: ~2 Hours)

• Evans Gambit Complete Course: Part 1 (Chess Lessons) - 32 Min
  
• Evans Gambit Complete Course: Part 2 (Chess Lessons) - 29 min
• Evans Gambit Complete Course: Part 3 (Chess Lessons) - 27 Min
• Evans Gambit Complete Course: Part 4 (Chess Lessons) - 22 Min

(GM Boris Altermans Gambit Guide Videos)

Grandmaster Boris Alterman investigates perhaps one of the soundest of the romantic gambits from the 18th century that is still used at top level in the game today - The Evans Gambit

• Evans Gambit Part 1  - 34 Min
• Evans Gambit Part 2 - 34 Min
• The Evans Gambit: Part 3 - 32 Min
• The Evans Gambit: Part 4 - 32 Min

(IM Alex Astaneh)

• Italian Game | Evans Gambit Accepted | Chess Openings 24 Min - In particular, we will have a look on black's most ambitions option, which is capturing on white's b4-pawn.
• Italian Game | Evans Gambit Declined | Chess Openings - 20 Min - We're analysing black's second option, which is to decline the gambit and to drop the bishop back to the b6-square. 

(NM Nelson Lopez)

Avoid common pitfalls with these video lessons highlighting mistakes players make at different skill levels.

• Top Mistakes in the Evans Gambit-part 1 - 18 Mins -  The Evan's Gambit opening basic idea, principles, and strategies you should watch out for.
• Common Mistakes in the Evan's Gambit - Part 2 - 14 Mins -  Top 2 mistakes players rated 1000 - 1400 are making in the Evan's Gambit AND how to fix them!
• Common Mistakes in the Evan's Gambit - Part 3 - 12 Min - The most common mistakes players rated 1400 - 1800 are making in the Evan's Gambit AND how to fix them!

Evan's Declined 

• Evans Gambit Declined - 18 Min  - Chesswebsite - We look at many variations if your opponents decide to decline the Evans Gambit.
  
  
• Chess Openings: If You Decline My Evans Gambit, You'll Lose!! - 30 Min IM Miodrag Perunovic - A comprehensive guide on how to play the Evans Gambit in chess, focusing on scenarios where the gambit is declined. It discusses various responses to the declined gambit, including counter-gambits and strategic moves to maintain an advantage.

Black Responses to Evan's

• Responses to the Evans Gambit | Chess Openings Explained - 49 Min St. Louis CC - National Master Jim McLaughlin profiles the Evans Gambit, where White plays a surprising 4.b4 in the Giuoco Piano. Learn what to do as Black to make White regret his sacrifice.
  
  
• Fighting the Evans Gambit - GM Damian Lemos - 30 Min - explores the options and plans available to Black when White plays the Evans Gambit.

Evans Gambit Traps and Tactics

• Tricks & Traps: The Evans Gambit - GM Denes Boros - 12 Min
• Poisoned Rook Trap - Evans Gambit - 10 Min
• Chess Trap 11 in Evans Gambit - 3 Min 
• Chess Trap 12 in Evans Gambit - 2 Min 
• Chess Trap 13 in Evans Gambit - 3 Min 
• Chess Trap 14 in Evans Gambit - 2 Min 

Game Videos (w/Analysis)

Evans Gambit - Chess Opening - 12 Video Playlist  -kingscrusher - This playlist features various Evans Gambit games with analysis, allowing you to see the opening in action.

Paul Morphy Plays the Evans Gambit | Tactics Time! - 38 Min - St.Louis CC - Dennis LaRue travels back to the Romantic chess era with Paul Morphy. See one game where the legend Morphy offered the b4 pawn and one game where he captured the b4 pawn. (New - 6/7/2024)

Garry plays the Evans Gambit | Kasparov vs Anand | Riga 1995 - 16 Min - GM Daniel King 

Carlsen Plays The Evans Gambit! - 6 min - GM Max Illingworth

GM Simon Williams

• 01. Spicy Openings! The Evans Gambit : The Famous Evergreen Game - 15 min
• 02. Spicy Openings! The Evans Gambit : Play Like An Attacking Mastermind - 15 Min
• 03. Spicy Openings! The Evans Gambit : The Theory Behind The Beauty - 19 Min
• 04. Spicy Openings! The Evans Gambit : Gambit Denier_ Punish The Meek man - 17 Min
• 05. Spicy Openings! The Evans Gabit : Nakamura Forces The Pawn Down Bobby's Throat - 16 Min

3 Times Paul Morphy Won with the Evans Gambit - 16 Min

Hikaru Nakamura Surprises Robert Hess With Evans Gambit - 6 Min

Stockfish Plays A Perfect Evan's Gambit Masterpiece! - 15 Min

Short vs Sargissian (2008) - 10 Min Video 

Chigorin Vs. Emanuel Lasker - 19 Min Total Part 1 , Part 2 

Kasparov vs Anand (1995) - 8 Min Video

Corus 2008 Short vs Sargissian - 11 min Video (With good analysis) 
Bobby Fischer blasts Reuben Fine in 17 moves with the Evan's Gambit | 1963 - 7 Min

Simplifying to a Pawn Ending | Standard Chess #275 [Evans Gambit] - 54 Min IM Bartholomew

Evan's Gambit Accepted 2 | Crazy Forced Checkmate (Chess) - 18 Min
Evan's Gambit Accepted | One Scenario of the Aggressive White Opening - 10 Min

"A good captain steers by the stars, not the weather."

The Scotch Game: A Comprehensive Resource Guide for White (C44-C45)

 

Feeling hemmed in by the Ruy Lopez? 
 Unleash Your Inner Tactician with the Scotch

• Dynamic and Aggressive: The Scotch Game (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4) is a fantastic opening choice for White players who crave dynamic positions and tactical opportunities. It avoids the complex lines of the Ruy Lopez while offering a rich battlefield for attacking chances.

• Suitable for All Levels: Whether you're a beginner looking for an exciting first opening or a seasoned player seeking new ideas, the Scotch Game offers something for everyone. Its clear development plans and central focus make it easy to learn, while its tactical depth provides a challenge for experienced players.

• Master the Scotch with Free Resources: This comprehensive guide equips you with all the tools you need to conquer the center and launch a fierce attack. We'll explore key variations, sharpen your tactical vision with puzzles, and provide video lessons from Chess GMs to elevate your game.

Let's explore the Scotch Game together!
Scroll down to discover articles, puzzles, video lessons, and more!


Scotch Game Wikipedia Page 
This page offers a solid foundation for understanding the opening's main lines, variations, and key ideas. 

 Wikipedia Links To All the Variation Explanations

• Main variations

  • 2.1

    Main line: 4.Nxd4

    • 2.1.1

      Classical Variation: 4...Bc5

    • 2.1.2

      Schmidt Variation: 4...Nf6

    • 2.1.3

      Steinitz Variation: 4...Qh4!?

  • 2.2

    Scotch Gambit: 4.Bc4

  • 2.3

    Göring Gambit: 4.c3

    • 2.3.1

      4...d5

    • 2.3.2

      Other ways of declining

    • 2.3.3

      One-pawn gambit: 4...dxc3 5.Nxc3

    • 2.3.4

      Double-pawn gambit: 4...dxc3 5.Bc4

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Books & Courses (FREE)

FREE Chessable Course

• The Scotch Gambit Starter Kit - Everything’s covered in just 31 trainable variations. Meaning you can start playing and winning with the Scotch Gambit in the next hour or two.

Internet Archive

500 Scotch Miniatures By Bill Wall - 107 Page PDF


4 Opening Systems to Start With - 50 page PDF - Free Exeter Chess Club PDF (Public Domain E-Book - This booklet gives you a repertoire to play when you are starting out in chess. It also gives you some alternatives if for some reason you don't like my first choice. The core of the repertoire is to play as White the Scotch Gambit.

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Scotch Chess Articles and Lessons

Deepen your theoretical knowledge of the Scotch Game with a collection of in-depth articles from chess experts.

• Scotch Game -  Chess Simplified Guide - This guide explores how to play White and Black in the Scotch Game chess opening, including aggressive strategies and effective counters.
  
  
• The Scotch Opening and Attacking opening for White - Big article on iChess.net - This guide explores why the Scotch is a great opening for various chess styles, how to play it effectively, and variations like the Four Knights and Mieses. (Archived)
  
  
• Chess Opening Basics The Scotch Game - on the Chessable Blog  (Decent Article) - This guide breaks down the core ideas behind the Scotch Game chess opening, making it easy for beginners to understand development and gain space in the center.

 

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Scotch Lichess Studies

Explore interactive training tools to solidify your understanding of the opening's concepts.

• Scotch Gambit - 11 Chapter Study - Nice Look at the Different Lines.
  
  
• Scotch Game - 7 Chapter - This quick Lichess study provides a concise overview of the main Scotch Game lines. (Good for beginners)
    
• Scotch Game w/ Ideas and Outcomes:  - 40 Chapter Study (Interactive)  (Really Well Done) (1100 Hearts) - This comprehensive Lichess study delves into the key ideas and outcomes of various Scotch Game and Gambit lines, featuring interactive puzzles for practice. (Comprehensive guide for all levels)
  
  
• The ultimate Scotch gambit guide - 19 Chapter Study - Lines, and model games

LiStudy   (Learn and Practice opening with Movetrainer)

• Scotch Game (White)  -  24 Lines to Practice
• Scotch Opening Repertoire  - 7 Lines to Practice
• In Depth Scotch Repertoire  -  30 Lines to Practice  (Really Nice)
• Scotch Gambit (Jedi Guide)  -  11 Lines to Practice

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge of the Scotch Game. Find the Lichess study that best suits your needs and start mastering the Scotch Game today!

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Scotch Game Chess Puzzles 

Sharpen Your Scotch Game Tactics! Test your skills with a collection of puzzles featuring typical tactical motifs and attacking chances that arise in Scotch Game positions.

(WTHarvey - 10,000 Chess Puzzles) 

Scotch Game (C45) - 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4 exd4 4.Nxd4 (10 Puzzles)

LiChess Opening Puzzles

Italian Game: Scotch Gambit - 2221 Puzzles 
Scotch Game - 24,000 Puzzles (Can break down puzzles to 17 variations on main page)

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Games Databases

Analyze real-life games featuring the Scotch and see how it's played in practice.

365Chess.com

• Scotch Game Guide - 43,000 Games
• C45: Scotch game 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Nxd4 - 29,515 games
• C44: King's pawn game 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 - 324,000 Games

Chessgames.com

• Kings pawn game c44 -  27 Annotated games
• Scotch game c45  - 50 Annotated games

Annotated Games 
 Deep Fritz - Kramnik, Vladimir (2807) [C45] 

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Scotch Game Video Lessons 

Learn from chess masters in video tutorials that explain the Scotch's key ideas and strategies.

Scotch Game Opening Theory - 6 Video Playlist - Hanging Pawns

ST Louis Chess Club Videos 

The Scotch Game - Chess Openings Explained  - 45 Min - Jonathan Schrantz teaches the Scotch Game, an underestimated opening that releases tension in the center early. Besides two notable games, the Goering gambit and the Dubois-Reti defence are also covered.
Let's Do Scotch! | Chess and Psychology - IM Dorsa Derakhshani - 52 Min - Dorsa Derakhshani takes you inside her head as she relives her games in the Scotch Game or Scotch Opening.

Opening Problems | Scotch | French | King's Indian - GM Yasser Seirawan - 50 Min - Intermediate-level lecture at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis. Club member Ken West asks for help in the Scotch

Nick Risko
Series on the Scotch Game or Scotch Opening.

• A Shot of Scotch #1: Third Move Sidelines | Chess Openings Explained - 69 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #2: Scotch Gambit, Bc5 Lines | Chess Openings Explained - 56 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #3: Scotch Gambit, Dubois Reti & Nakhmanson | Chess Openings Explained - 63 min
• A Shot of Scotch #4: Göring Gambit | Chess Openings Explained - 41 Min
• A Shot of Scotch #5: Queen Moves | Chess Openings Explained - 51 Min
• A Shot of Scotch: The Napoleon Gambit | Chess Openings Explained - 18 Min

 
A Magical Chess Opening for ALL Levels - 16 Min (Potter Variation)  IM Rozman - The Scotch, in particular the Potter Variation. A very easy opening for beginners who are looking to get good at chess.

Chess Openings: How To Play The Scotch Gambit - Quickstarter Jedi Guide - 31 Min

Attack with the Scotch and Giuoco Piano! - GM Roman Dzindzichashvili - 35 Min

DOMINATE with Black against the Scotch Gambit! (EMPIRE CHESS) - 16 Min - GM Victor Mikhalevski demonstrates the perils awaiting any unprepared player with the black pieces against the Scotch Gambit along with several impressive examples of successful defense.

Scotch Gambit 

Scotch Gambit  - 11 Video Playlist - FM James Canty III

• The Best Chess Opening against 1...e5 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 19 Min - Instead of taking the pawn back with 4.Nxd4, White plays in gambit style, sacrificing the pawn, for rapid development and great attacking opportunities. You'll enjoy this line a lot because it is solid, aggressive, and easy to learn.
  
  
• The Scotch Gambit: Great Examples and Ideas for White! - 26 Min  Ichess.net - Roman looks at a number of Scotch Gambit lines with emphasis upon White maintaining an advantage in every possible line.
  
  
• The Max Lange Attack in the Scotch Gambit | An Opening full of Traps | IM Alex Astaneh - 24 Min - Showing you the Max Lange Attack that can arise out of the Scotch Gambit. The Max Lange Attack is not only popular at the master level but also at the club level as it offers a dynamic play.
  
  
• How to Play the Scotch Gambit | Grandmaster Repertoire - 40 Min GM Moulthun - Molton dissects variations after White gambits the d-pawn (4.Bc4) in the Scotch Game. Learn aggressive ideas to capitalize on the pawn sacrifice!
  
  
• Grab the Initiative and become unstoppable with the Scotch Gambit! - 20 Min  GM Roman Dzindzichashvili - Roman looks at unexpected variations to get a good position in the Scotch Gambit with 4.Bc4 rather than capturing The Pawn in the main Line Scotch with 4.Nxd4 is his featured game.

 

Goring Gambit 

Goring Gambit Series - 10 Video Playlist - AS Chess School

Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Goring Gambit! - 21 Min - The Chess Giant - Solomon Rodell explores this aggressive gambit (1.e4 c6 2.Nf3 3.d4 exd4 4.c3!). Learn how to punish Black's unusual defense!

The NEW (and better!) Danish Gambit | Repertoire: Goring Gambit - 32 Min - FM William Graf - Surprise your opponent with a sneaky gambit! Graif explores this aggressive line (1.e4 Nf3 3.c3 4.d4!) for White in the Danish Gambit. Sacrifice for a tempo and dominate the center! (You Transpose to the Scotch)

Attacking Chess Gambit against 1.e5 (Goring Gambit) - 30 Min - In-depth tutorial on the Goring Gambit, an aggressive chess opening strategy against 1.e5.

Chess Opening for Black (Goring Gambit) - 20 Min - A comprehensive guide on how to counter the Goring Gambit in chess when playing as black.

Scotch Game | Göring Gambit - 21 Min - Hanging Pawns - The Göring Gambit is a very aggressive, highly provocative and slightly unsound continuation for white. He gives up a full pawn for development and an attempt for a deadly initiative.  (New - 6/10/2024)

Scotch Game Traps

• Chess Trap 27 (Counter-Trap Against Scotch Gambit) - 12 Min
  
  
• Deadly Scotch Game Trap | Hyper-Aggressive Opening for White - 7 Min
  
  
• Chess TRAPS in the Scotch Gambit opening! ♔ Paul Morphy ♕ QUEEN Sac! - 3 Min
  
  
• Scotch gambit chess opening - strong attacking traps you should know - 15 Min - We take a look at Scotch gambit game and some amazing attacking options and "traps" white has prepared for player playing the black pieces by not allowing him to castle.
  
  Best Chess Opening for White After 1.e4 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 16 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - Out of the 3 most common responses of Black, 2 moves are huge mistakes and lose the game for Black immediately.
  
  
• Best Chess Opening for White After 1.e4 | Scotch Gambit Traps - 16 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - Out of the 3 most common responses of Black, 2 moves are huge mistakes and lose the game for Black immediately.

Black Side of the Scotch

 GJ_Chess

• Chess Opening for Black (Scotch Game - 1)  - 26 Min - GJ_Chess
• Chess Opening for Black (Scotch Game - 2)  - 27 Min  - GJ_Chess
• Chess Opening for Black (Evans Gambit) - 22 Min - GJ CHess

How to play against the Scotch  -  24 Min - NM Robert Plunketts lab - I go over all the main options and some of the trickiest options for black on how to play against the Scotch opening

Scotch Game - A Short, Simple Repertoire for Black - 21 Min - A brief, easy-to-remember repertoire for Black against the Scotch Game (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4).

Chess Opening For Black against E4 | Scotch Game - 6 Min - Coach Kestony 

My SECRET Anti-Scotch Opening System [No Theory] - 19 Min - GM Igor Smirnov - You will cut down on a lot of opening theory by learning a single variation that can be played against all these lines. The London Defense variation, which occurs after 4...Bb4+ in the Scotch Gambit, forces White to react to the check, thus limiting their choices. You will also learn the common opening mistakes to avoid, middlegame plans, typical attacking ideas, and some deadly traps

Scotch GAME VIDEOS (w/Analysis)

Scotch Opening  - 60 Video Playlist - Chess School
Scotch Game  - 12 Video Playlist  - agadmantor
Scotch Game  - 68 Video playlist - kingscrusher

This Guy Just Demolished a Super GM with SCOTCH GAMBIT - 12 Min - Awonder Liang just won an incredibly beautiful game with the Scotch Gambit against Levon Aronian

GM Naroditsky
Amazing Game Videos w/ Lots of Analysis and GM lessons.

• Beginner To Master | Chess Speedrun | Scotch Game  - 20 Min
• Master Class | The Scotch Game | Chess Speedrun  - 34 min
• Scotch Gambit (AMAZING Game) | The Sensei Speedrun  - 61 Min
• Scotch Game: Göring, Main Line | The Sensei Speedrun - 28 Min 

"Fortune favors the bold." - Virgil (Poet)