Chess Block Tactic: Part of the Chess Tactics Guide
Chess Tactics Guide
Block Tactic
[Introduction]
A Block is a defensive tactic, used when another of your pieces has come under attack and you either cannot, or do not want to move that piece from its current position ...
For example, your opponent's Bishop has just placed your King in Check - you don't want to move your King, as it would immediately void your later option to Castle your King.
So, instead, you disrupt the Check by Blocking with another piece - such as a Pawn.
When Blocking, it is best - if possible - to use an inferior piece to the attacking piece used by your opponent.
If a relatively inferior piece isn't available, and Blocking is your preferred tactic, then your next option would be to try and use a piece of equal value - for instance, meeting a Bishop threat with a Bishop of your own.
If you've been a total Herbert and managed to make an utter balls-up of your game, in dire situations, it may be required to risk losing a relatively superior piece, if it means protecting your King.
Anyway, let's take a look at a few examples ...
Block Tactic Index
Three examples of the Block tactic being used to defend ...- Block, Example 1 (page 1)
Shows a White Pawn Blocking a Check from a Black Bishop.
- Block, Example 2 (page 2)
Shows a White Bishop Blocking a Check from a Black's Queen.
- Block, Example 3 (page 3)
Shows a Black Bishop Blocking a Check from a White's Queen.
More Block related articles ...
- Interpose
Not another type of Block, just another name for the Block tactic. In the given example, White's light-Bishop Interposes itself between its King and Black's Rook, blocking the Check.
- Blockade
A Blockade is used to stop an enemy Pawn gaining promotion, making it subtly different from a standard Block, which protects a more valuable Piece (e.g. King).
Return to the Chess Tactics Index ← Back to the Chess Glossary (Block) - Blockade
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- Block, Example 2 (page 2)