Chess Mines

Endgames can be really nerve-racking. This is the phase of the game that matters the most, so every move you make is important, and you need to grasp endgame concepts to survive the different types of endgames you can get into. King endgames are my favorite.

These endgames are like walking through a minefield. Look at this example:

If a king walks onto one of the highlighted squares, that side loses because of zugzwang. Hence, these squares are like mines. 

And how do you avoid a mine? You walk around it!

Identifying these mined squares can be tricky, but if there's a spot that defends a pawn, but none of the available spots around it protect the pawn, then it is probably dangerous. In real life, the mine will not activate until you step off it, but in chess, you have no choice, because of zugzwang! Sometimes you do not even realize that you're stepping on one:

Most mines, however, can be spotted. Can you identify the two mined squares below?

If you guess b6 and c4, you are correct! Stepping on either mine will lead to zugzwang. Another thing you must remember: if your opponent steps on a mine, step on the other one! This is the only way to punish their mistake.

Here's a final test. Two mines will appear, which you will need to walk around. Can do it?

King endgames are chess minefields, so make sure to walk in the right places. Sorry for the shorter post, I am working on a new post for a blogging competition starting on January 1st, 2023. Thanks for reading, make sure to comment, and I hope you enjoyed.