The Cross-Pin
Here's an interesting tactic: the Cross-Pin. It is a simple, yet deadly variation of the pin, in which a player simulateously pins one piece to two or more other pieces. It is usually utilized by the bishop and the queen, and can be used as a double pin, a triple pin, etc.
Here is a dazzling example:
Black wins, as there is no defense. If White moves the queen away, then Black wins the bishop, and the game.
Here is another example of another brilliant cross-pin:
As you can see, the cross-pin is not only a deadly weapon but a fantastic way to turn the tables! It is a great way to win with finesse, or at the very least, gain some material.
Diagrams from Combinations, the Heart of Chess
Picture from Michael Maggs, Wikimedia Commons
Picture from Michael Maggs, Wikimedia Commons
