Chess Guide
Chess Tips, Chess Tactics and Chess Strategies

Computer Chess Board –The Ideal choice!

December 30th, 2009

Chess is a stimulating game that really tests one’s ability and skills. But then, aside from the rules, principles of chess opening and moves used in the game, of course you will need to have a chess board together with the chess pieces for you to be able to play such game. Perhaps if someone asks you what a chess board looks like, definitely you will think of a cardboard fold-up which are mostly used in checkers. Yes, you’re correct. But then again, chessboards are not only classified like that. Chess boards have a wide range of textures and finishes. Apart from this, they were also designed to fit in many different locations.

For beginners, a good quality thick cardboard fold up can be a best option. This is due to the fact that you are just starting with the game. Anyway, this is only and alternative before deciding to buy a more expensive chess set. You can also opt to buy a basic chess set, or maybe a games compendium that contain chess set. In this way, you will have a chance to play two games in a single board. The backgammon board and the chess board printed on the reverse side.

For advance players who are often play chess on regular basis, you will need to invest money to get one with a better quality. You can also opt to buy themed sets that are designed for experts. These types of chess sets often featured war themes which comprise of war necessities such as soldiers, cavalries and artilleries. These chess sets are usually made using excellent quality wood such as walnut and oak. Other than that, there are also chess sets that are made from glass, bronze, metal, ivory and even plastic.

For chess players who are fond of traveling places, you can invest your money to buy chess board that contains built in table for chess pieces. Or if you want, maybe you opt to choose from a number of traveling chess sets in the high store. These are usually magnetic and perfect for the beach. In addition, these can be stored in a convenient space.

Aside from the traditional chess boards, there are many other options to choose from. One of these is the computer chess board or the so called” electronic chess game”. These are programmable gadgets that feature different levels of difficulty. Having this type of chess board can really bring a lot of conveniences. Aside from the fact that electronic chess game indicates the move to the computer, you can play it anytime, anywhere. In addition to that, you can also invite players from the online community just in case an opponent is not around. Likewise, you can play on your own by challenging the computer’s ability.

Whether what type of chess board you choose, the important thing is that you know how much you are willing to spend. Besides, a good chess player will not only base his game to chess board. Instead, a good chess player must also possess healthy in logical thinking. If you really want to improve your game, you have to gain experience in playing. Moreover, joining chess clubs may also help.


Filed under: Chess Tips | Tags: , , , , ,
December 30th, 2009 14:45:52

Sokolsky Opening – One of the Uncommon Chess Openings

December 05th, 2009

One of the uncommon chess openings is the Sokolsky Opening otherwise known as Polish or Orangutan Opening. The move 1.b4 is considered uncommon and classified by the Encyclopedia of Chess Openings under the code A00. This kind of opening was never gain popularity especially in the top level although prominent players in many game tournaments have played it.

The name of this chess opening Orangutan was created when Tartakower a chess master visited a zoo and consulted an orangutan for the possible move he may open on the tournament. Consequently, Sokolsky a Soviet player wrote a monograph abouit the Orangutan Opening and eventually changed its name.

This uncommon opening plays tactics on the Queenside squares or in the g7and f6. There are several ways for the Black to respond and just like other openings; the main aim is to manipulate the center area of the board. After several moves the White may take advantage on the weakness of the Black Queenside. However, an aggressive and sharper move the Black could put pressure in the c5 and plan for an attack against the weak structure in White Queenside.

Nevertheless, there is nothing wrong if you try playing sort of openings that are uncommon. After all, winning the game relies on the tactics that you would do to confuse your opponent. Keep in mind that chess openings can be improve through hard work and perseverance. If you want to be a grandmaster someday, it is ideal to start early improving your moves and ideas. One thing you can do to obtain modern ideas in opening is to play chess openings that are respected and reputable. This is because you cannot force your opponent to play uncommon opening that you know. In this sense, you should have the ability to adapt any openings used in many tournaments. Once you have learned the lines and variations of any openings, you should not stop there. As much as possible, practice it constantly to train your mind to plan quicker for the next possible move. However, do not force yourself to do it fast as it may lead to some problems regarding your move.

When playing chess you should keep in mind that you are not only playing for the money and prestige but also to gain additional experience and strategies from your opponent. That is why it is recommended to retain in your mind the mistakes that both of you committed in the game so that you will not commit it again in the future. Doing so will not only improve your lines and moves but also your strategies in the opening that you confidently use.

Uncommon opening in chess in some way may provide help in your game only if you will study and pay attention to the valuable moves that you can use along with the modern ideas. Study the moves performed by famous chess masters although it seems uncommon. More often than not, you can obtain some specific moves that could be helpful to you. Remember that even professional chess players make use of combining several tactics in openings and end the game victorious.


Filed under: Chess Tips | Tags: , , ,
December 05th, 2009 18:52:24