Zugzwang is a situation on the board in which any move you make worsens your own position. Zugzwang is a very important element in the endgame. There is almost no pawn ending in which zugzwang does not play a part. The opposition, triangulation, mined or corresponding squares are the best known examples. But in other endings too, zugzwang frequently plays its part.
Those positions in which there is a mutual zugzwang are of particular interest.
Here are some of the important characteristics in a position which can lead to zugzwang: 1) the pieces are immobile; 2) the pieces and pawns are in their best possible positions and any changes will be for the worse; 3) the pieces are fulfilling several tasks at the same time.
I remember the 1st time I heard the term zugzwang. I found myself enjoying just saying it. Eventually, I delighted more in causing it for the opposition. Nice explanation. 🙂
Zugzwang is a situation on the board in which any move you make worsens your own position.
Zugzwang is a very important element in the endgame. There is almost no pawn ending in which zugzwang does not play a part. The opposition, triangulation, mined or corresponding squares are the best known examples. But in other endings too, zugzwang frequently plays its part.
Those positions in which there is a mutual zugzwang are of particular interest.
Here are some of the important characteristics in a position which can lead to zugzwang:
1) the pieces are immobile;
2) the pieces and pawns are in their best possible positions and any changes will be for the worse;
3) the pieces are fulfilling several tasks at the same time.