About Zugzwang
Zugzwang is a beautiful and brutal idea: the opponent is not in immediate danger, but because they are obliged to move, every legal move damages their position — dropping a pawn, abandoning a key square, or stepping into a loss. Zugzwang is the deciding factor in countless endgames, especially king-and-pawn and minor-piece endings, and appears in tactical puzzles as the quiet move that leaves the opponent helpless. These {count} zugzwang puzzles train you to recognize when passing the move to the opponent is the winning plan.
Frequently asked questions
What is zugzwang in chess?
Zugzwang is a situation where a player must move but every available move worsens their position. If they could pass, they would, but the rules force a move.
Where does zugzwang occur most?
In endgames, especially king-and-pawn endings, where the obligation to move loses the opposition, a key square or a pawn.
How do I use zugzwang to win?
Reach a position where all your opponent's moves are bad, often by triangulating with your king to hand them the move.
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