Phases of a Chess Game: The Middlegame and Intiative

There are three phases of a chess game: opening, middlegame and endgame. The middlegame is essential part of any chess game. It unlocks sharp lines and fierce attacking potential for both the players. By this time the king should be in a safe position, ideally castled and one should look for attacks and threats. Most of the developed pieces should be pointing towards the opponents king or other vulnerable spots. If the middlegame is played right it can give one advantages that can be used in the endgame.

 The player with the initiative often controls the direction and pace of the game. They force the opponent to react to threats, thereby setting the game’s agenda. By maintaining the initiative, a player can prevent the opponent from implementing their own plans and strategies successfully. This limits the opponent's options and can lead to mistakes. Sustained pressure can lead to psychological stress for the opponent, increasing the likelihood of mistakes. Each move that forces a reaction from the opponent is said to gain tempo. With every tempo gained, the player with the initiative progresses their position while restricting the opponent’s responses. A strong initiative in the middlegame can transition into a winning endgame. The pressure and threats created often lead to material gains or decisive positional advantages.

Garry Kasparov was a player well know for creating and holding initiative throughout the game leading to brilliant victories not unlike the following