Chess For Dummies [Paperback]

Your quick and easy guide to chess

Kings, queens, knights—does chess seem like a royal pain to grasp? Taking the intimidation out of this age-old pastime, Chess For Dummies, 4^th Edition is here to help beginners wrap their minds around the rules of the game, make sense of those puzzling pieces, and start playing chess like a champ. From using the correct chess terminology to engaging in the art of the attack, you'll get easy-to-follow, step-by-step explanations that demystify the game—and give you an extra edge.

Chess isn't a game you can master—it's an activity that requires patience, strategy, and constant learning. But that's all part of the fun and challenge! Whether you're playing chess online, in a tournament, or with a family member or friend, this hands-on guide gets you familiar with the game and its components, giving you the know-how to put the principles of play into action from the opening to the endgame.

• Grasp the principles of play and the nuances of each phase of the game
• Familiarize yourself with the pieces and the board
• Pick the perfect chess board and set
• Know each of the pieces and their powers

If you find yourself in a stalemate before you even begin a game, this friendly book helps you put your chess foot forward!

Introduction 1

Part 1: Laying the Groundwork for Champion Chess 5

CHAPTER 1: Tackling Chess Basics 7

CHAPTER 2: Getting to Know the Pieces and Their Powers 21

CHAPTER 3: Exploring the Elements of Chess 39

CHAPTER 4: Going after the King: Check, Stalemate, and Checkmate 63

CHAPTER 5: Making a Few Special Moves 79

CHAPTER 6: Got Notation? Rlƒ6