Break the Rules!: A Modern Look At Chess Strategy

by Neil McDonald

Overview

As we progress as chess players we quickly learn a set of guidelines which help us to formulate plans, develop typical strategies and recognize key tactics. However, chess is not an easy game, with fixed ‘rules’ that can be applied to every single position. In fact, blindly following such rules proves to be counterproductive and prevents a player from moving on to the next level, whereas knowing when to ‘break’ these rules is precisely the skill which separates the best from the rest.
 
In this instructive and entertaining book, Grandmaster Neil McDonald studies in depth the key components of successful rule-breaking in chess. Drawing upon his own experience and using examples from modern grandmaster chess, McDonald examines how to avoid stereotypical thinking, how to exploit typical thinking patterns, and how to confuse and beat opponents with surprising ideas.
 
*Improve your chess strategy and creativity
*Recognize and exploit typical thinking processes
*Check your progress with rule-breaking exercises

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781857446739
Publisher:	Everyman Chess
Publication date:	03/05/2013
Series:	Everyman Chess
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Neil McDonald is a Grandmaster who has firmly established himself as one of the world's leading chess writers, with many outstanding works to his name.

Table of Contents

Introduction 5

1 The Anarchist of the Chessboard 7

2 The Power of Ugly Pawn Moves 23

3 Breaking the Rhythm of the Struggle 40

4 The King as All Action Star 56

5 Wait with White, Provoke with Black! 69

6 Living on the Edge 92

7 Time is Not of the Essence 111

8 Are You a Rule-Breaker? Take the Test! 128

9 Solutions 135

Index of Openings 158

Index of Complete Games 159

Editorial Reviews

Break the Rules is jam-packed with big ideas that will challenge every assumption about how to play a game of chess. It is for creative players who are not afraid of playing and thinking beyond their comfort zone. Glance at any of the book's diagrams and you will find dynamic, exciting, and creative examples from today's top-level players. In conclusion, this is a book of unusual chess moves and maneuvers designed to reboot and freshen our approach. Winning by any means necessary means using every resource available. Any piece can be used in any way to win. McDonald has chosen instructive games that inspire. He peppers his book with informative quotes and his wry wit in a book both instructive and fun. He has uncovered some fascinating games won with some surprising moves.- Chesscafe.com

From the Publisher