Advanced tactics
Zugzwang
Any move worsens the position — but the player is forced to move.
What is the zugzwang?
Zugzwang is a situation where a player would love to pass, because every available move makes their position worse — yet the rules say they must move. The compulsion itself is the weapon.
Why the zugzwang matters
It is the soul of endgame play. King-and-pawn endings, the opposition, and many fortress-breaks come down to handing the opponent the move when they have nothing good left. Understanding zugzwang turns "drawn-looking" endings into wins.
How to use it to win
Count your opponent's useful moves. If you can reach a position where they are out of waiting moves — no safe piece shuffles, no pawn tempi — a quiet pass-the-move forces a concession.
Try an example puzzle
A real zugzwang puzzle from the app. Black to move — find the idea, then reveal the line.
Show solution
1. ... Kf5 2. Ke3 Kg4
Drill the zugzwang on thousands of real puzzles, matched to your rating.