Mating patterns are the essence of attacking chess. By mastering the typical set-ups, a player can begin to sense when a mating idea is present and to finish off games beautifully and effectively. On this DVD, Grandmaster and worldrenowned commentator Maurice Ashley reviews some of the more interesting patterns with examples meant to educate and entertain. The patterns covered are a must for all aspiring chess players: mate with 2 rooks, bank-rank mate, mate with bishop and knight, bishop and rook mate as well as mating on diagonals. The course maximizes its learning effect by taking advantage of the latest ChessBase interactive format and comes with approximately 30 tricky positions, some with follow-up exercises, to test and solidify your newly acquired pattern recognition skills. With his usual dynamic flair, Ashley will take you on an interactive journey where he will instruct you on how to increase the odds of including these important patterns in your games and crushing your opponents in style.   • Video running time: 4 h 04 min (English) • 30 carefully selected tactical examples including video feedback • Including CB 12 Reader   System requirements Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 12/Fritz 13 or included Reader and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 or Windows 8, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

How Grandmasters Find Amazing Moves - Most chess fans believe that knowledge of the opening, middlegame and endgame is what separates Grandmasters from everyone else. While all of these are important, the truth is much more profound: Top players all have a deep insight into how to think about chess in ways that most players have never heard of. On this DVD, Maurice Ashley reveals a simple idea that will forever change the way that you see chess. He shares the secret he discovered on his path to the Grandmaster title, a secret that every player must understand in order to reach the highest level. Introducing his new term “Drawback Chess“, he shows that chess is often not about looking for a winning move, but more about searching to find the flaws hidden deep inside your opponent‘s moves. With instructive examples and engaging practice positions, all explained with a clarity that anyone can understand, Maurice opens the door to a grandmaster‘s thinking process that will put you on the path to real chess improvement. Video running time: 4 hours   Maurice Ashley is an International Grandmaster well known for his dynamic brand of chess commentary and effective coaching style. He was a commentator for the Anand-Kasparov World Championship match as well as all of Kasparov‘s epic computer matches.   This Fritztrainer is also running under Pocket Fritz 3 and Pocket Fritz 4. System requirements: Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard.

when material is unbalanced   Queen against two rooks or three minor pieces, as well as a rook plus pawn vs two minor pieces - these are typical constellations where the material is unbalanced. In our first steps in chess we are taught about the nominal value of the pieces. The queen is equal to nine pawns; a rook to five, a minor piece is worth three pawns. This is a common sense solution aimed at teaching the beginner a system of values so that he or she does not trade a more valuable piece for a less good one. Later however, situations occur in games in which one side can trade two minor pieces (six pawns) for a rook and a pawn (also six pawns). Theoretically speaking, this should result in an equal position, but in reality one of the two sides will profit from the exchange. There are many cases of material imbalance in chess. In his new DVD GM Dejan Bojkov of Bulgaria makes an attempt to systematise the most important ones and gives valuable advice on how to handle the resulting positions. He also explains the hidden factors behind the imbalances, explanations which will guide you through the art of exchanging pieces.• Video running time: 4 hours 50 minutes (English) • With interactive training including videofeedback • Exclusive training database with selected 50 games • Including CB 12 – Reader   System requirements Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 12/Fritz 13 or included Reader and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 or Windows 8, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Fast alle Schachfiguren (außer den trickreichen Springern) haben die Fähigkeit, sich auf geraden Bahnen fortzubewegen, ob vertikal (Linien), horizontal (Reihen) oder auf den Diagonalen. Diese geraden Bahnen, welche die verschiedenen Abschnitte des Brettes verbinden und den Figuren die Chance geben, den Ausgang der Schlacht zu entscheiden, sind äußerst wichtig im Schach, und daher der Titel Highways - Zugstraßen. Die Fähigkeiten der Figuren zu verstehen, ist für jeden Spieler ein absolutes Muss, vom Anfänger bis hin zum Meister. In einer Schachpartie sind Sie der General, und die Figuren sind Ihre eigenen Soldaten - je besser Ihre Beziehung zu Ihren Soldaten, desto besser Ihre Ergebnisse.   In seiner dritten DVD für ChessBase gibt GM Dejan Bojkov aus Bulgarien Aufschluss über die Eigenschaften jener Figuren, die sich auf geraden Bahnen fortbewegen, und Tipps, wie man die offenen Diagonalen, Reihen und Linien am besten nutzen kann, um aus jeder einzelnen Figur das Maximum herauszuholen. In 30 Clips werden Sie erfahren, wie Sie Ihre Schwerfiguren besser verstehen und die offenen bzw. halboffenen Linien effektiver verwerten können; Sie werden erfahren, was deren Ängste sind, und wie Sie ihnen helfen können. Am Ende gibt es auf der DVD eine Trainingssession, um das Materialverständnis besser zu fördern. Ein unschätzbar wertvolles Handbuch für Spieler wie Trainer. Videospielzeit: 5 Std. 38 min (Englisch)   Systemvoraussetzungen   Pentium Prozessor 300 MHz oder besser, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD-ROM Laufwerk, Maus, Soundkarte

In this DVD Sam Collins explains the games from which he has learned the most, arising out of 1.e4 e5. Topics covered include: exchanges, attacking strategy, gambits and sacrificial play, opening selection, play with opposite coloured bishops, restriction of the opponent’s pieces, play in queenless middlegames and endgame technique. The themes are of critical importance for an understanding of how to play the middlegame. However, Collins also gives a full explanation of the themes from the opening and early middlegame, making this an invaluable collection for players who play the open games with either colour, or who simply want to learn more about this central touchstone of chess development. Video running time: 4 hours   System requirements   Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

Chess is turning into a young man’s game. Time limits are faster, sessions last longer and computer databases and playing engines seem to dominate opening preparation. Add the fact that older players often have jobs and families that take most of their time and it’s no surprise they suffer painful defeats at the hands of spotty youths. Nigel Davies is no stranger to this situation; a more mature Grandmaster who refuses to grow old with dignity he is still slugging it out with young players in tournaments and matches. On this DVD he argues that an older player with very little time can nonetheless remain competitive, but only if he uses guile and common sense rather than bluster and machismo. There are several aspects to Davies’ plan, for example using ‘low maintenance openings’, seeking out particular types of position, making the endgame your hunting ground and looking after your health. He goes on to show how several great players have used such techniques to make outstanding results in their 60s and even 70s. Video runnig time: 3 hours.   Nigel Davies has been an International Grandmaster since 1993 and is a former British Open Quickplay and U21 Champion. He finished 3rd in the 2008 British Championships at 48 years of age.   System requirements: Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

Open-, Half-Open Files and The Pawn Chain In this series it's all about strategy for club players, explained in a simple way with clear examples! The idea is to focus on certain themes using specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten will offer rules-of-thumb and concepts to give clubchess players the necessary guidance to try and find the right paths in their own games. In this two-part course the emphasis will be on typical pawn-structures, ones that appear quite often in games and that will be very recognisable to club-chess players. Hence, the topics "Open and half-open files" and "the pawn chain" will be covered extensively on this video course. • Video running time: 6 hours 30 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels  

The Isolated Queen's Pawn and The Passed Pawn A new production in the "Key Concepts of Chess" series. The idea is to focus on certain themes by means of specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten offers rules-of-thumb and concepts to give club-chess players the necessary guidance so that they can try to find the right paths in their own games. In this second part the emphasis will be on typical pawn structures that appear quite often in games, and that will be very recognizable for clubchess players. For example, on this video course the topics "the isolated queen pawn (IQP)" and "the passed-pawn in the middlegame" will be discussed in detail. Because the IQP can appear on the board in many opening variations, it is worthwhile to study. The fact that sometimes a passed-pawn can be invaluable and can cause an astonishing effect will be music to the ears of the club-chess player. • Video running time: 3 hours 40 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels

Bundle Offer : Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 1 + 2 Herman Grooten is an International Master from the Netherlands, a renowned trainer with over 35 years of experience and the author of several highly acclaimed books about chess training and chess strategy. Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 1 Open-, Half-Open Files and The Pawn Chain In this series it's all about strategy for club players, explained in a simple way with clear examples! The idea is to focus on certain themes using specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten will offer rules-of-thumb and concepts to give clubchess players the necessary guidance to try and find the right paths in their own games. In this two-part course the emphasis will be on typical pawn-structures, ones that appear quite often in games and that will be very recognisable to club-chess players. Hence, the topics "Open and half-open files" and "the pawn chain" will be covered extensively on this video course. • Video running time: 6 hours 30 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 2 The Isolated Queen's Pawn and The Passed Pawn A new production in the "Key Concepts of Chess" series. The idea is to focus on certain themes by means of specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten offers rules-of-thumb and concepts to give club-chess players the necessary guidance so that they can try to find the right paths in their own games. In this second part the emphasis will be on typical pawn structures that appear quite often in games, and that will be very recognizable for clubchess players. For example, on this video course the topics "the isolated queen pawn (IQP)" and "the passed-pawn in the middlegame" will be discussed in detail. Because the IQP can appear on the board in many opening variations, it is worthwhile to study. The fact that sometimes a passed-pawn can be invaluable and can cause an astonishing effect will be music to the ears of the club-chess player. • Video running time: 3 hours 40 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels System requirements: Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows 7, DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 / 8 or 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVDROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Bundle Offer : Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 1 + 2 Herman Grooten is an International Master from the Netherlands, a renowned trainer with over 35 years of experience and the author of several highly acclaimed books about chess training and chess strategy. Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 1 Open-, Half-Open Files and The Pawn Chain In this series it's all about strategy for club players, explained in a simple way with clear examples! The idea is to focus on certain themes using specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten will offer rules-of-thumb and concepts to give clubchess players the necessary guidance to try and find the right paths in their own games. In this two-part course the emphasis will be on typical pawn-structures, ones that appear quite often in games and that will be very recognisable to club-chess players. Hence, the topics "Open and half-open files" and "the pawn chain" will be covered extensively on this video course. • Video running time: 6 hours 30 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels Herman Grooten: Key Concepts of Chess – Pawn Structures Vol. 2 The Isolated Queen's Pawn and The Passed Pawn A new production in the "Key Concepts of Chess" series. The idea is to focus on certain themes by means of specific pawn structures. The central question is: how can the pieces be manoeuvred into good positions and what should we then consider? IM Herman Grooten offers rules-of-thumb and concepts to give club-chess players the necessary guidance so that they can try to find the right paths in their own games. In this second part the emphasis will be on typical pawn structures that appear quite often in games, and that will be very recognizable for clubchess players. For example, on this video course the topics "the isolated queen pawn (IQP)" and "the passed-pawn in the middlegame" will be discussed in detail. Because the IQP can appear on the board in many opening variations, it is worthwhile to study. The fact that sometimes a passed-pawn can be invaluable and can cause an astonishing effect will be music to the ears of the club-chess player. • Video running time: 3 hours 40 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Extra: Model Games and Training with ChessBase apps - Play key pawn structures against Fritz on various levels System requirements: Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows 7, DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 / 8 or 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVDROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Advanced Tactics and Calculations are of utmost importance when it comes to improving your chess. How do you calculate long variations and where do you stop? When can you rely on intuition, and what methods are there to choose from? Tactics are taught early and lead to serious improvement when you learn themes like Pin, Double Attack, Fork etc. as a beginner. However, after a certain level, it is not so straightforward to simply work on tactics and improve. That's the reason we have recorded the Master Advanced Tactics and Calculations like a Super Grandmaster with GM Vidit Gujrathi. In this video course we use studies to present the different aspects of Advanced Tactics and Calculations. As Vidit navigates his way through the world of studies, you get to see a world class GM in action. When does he use brute force and calculation and when does he rely on his intuition - these are all the things that you get to learn from Vidit's video course. IM Sagar Shah sits along with Vidit and tries to break down the thinking of a Super GM in a way that it is easier for you to understand. If you decide to seriously work on the material presented here, you can be sure that you will become stronger at chess calculation. In addition, we have carefully selected 95 positions where you will be put to the test. Try to find the right solution by playing against Fritz. This practical training will make you ready for your own games. Detailed annotated solutions are provided that will help you to take your game to the next level. • Video running time: 5 hours 26 minutes • Extra: Additional database with 95 positions, Training with ChessBase apps - Play key positions against Fritz on various levels Including download & stream for iPad, tablet etc:can be unlocked with imprinted key System requirements: Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows 8.1, DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 / 8 or 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVDROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Rustam Kasimdzhanov explains tactics in the most amazingly simple way. In his opinion there are only three elements which are really important and which therefore decide most games: “pins”, “double attacks” and “back rank weaknesses”.  The 2004 FIDE World Champion explains these three elements by starting from simple model positions and going on to examine progressively more complicated examples. One important factor in his explanations is always how to spot the underlying patterns in practical play and then bring them into existence. This is because it is rare to be able to execute tactical blows immediately - the correct preparatory moves have to be played first. The motifs he is dealing with occur so often in practice that Kasimdzhanov had absolutely no problem in finding sufficient up-to-date material. Video running time: 4 hours 20 min. System requirements: Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM,Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

The best way to improve at chess is to carefully study master games, stop at certain positions and think about candidate moves. Doing this on your own can be difficult and tiresome, but on this video course, you will be guided by world renowned trainers! Daniel King, Simon Williams and Robert Ris present 10 selected games from top tournaments. Thoroughly explaining the ins-and-outs of the position, in key moments they put you to the test. You enter your candidate move, then you will get video feedback from the authors, depending on your choice. Typically, all candidate moves are covered, i.e. you don't only get to know why the solution is right, but also why other continuations are wrong, enabling you to learn from your mistakes. These carefully chosen examples on this video course are part of the "Move by move" column in ChessBase Magazine and cover a lot of topics: attack, defence, tactics, strategy, opening, traps, initiative, endgame and many more – in short, the perfect course to improve every aspect of your game! • Video running time: more than 9 hours (English) • 10 games with 170 video questions System requirements: Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows 7, DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 / 8 or 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVDROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

The best target for an attack is undoubtedly the enemy king – especially if its position is weakened or still in the centre. But what should you do if your opponent has castled long to bring his king to safety? Which pieces should you use to spearhead the attack, how should you weaken his pawn shield, and what are the motifs that you simply have to know? On this DVD, IM Valeri Lilov will mould you into a player well-versed in the art of attack. You will emerge with a knowledge of the sure-fire techniques and strategies that you can use to rip open the opponent’s defences and hunt his king down! In over 20 demonstrative video lectures, Lilov explains the typical schemes of an attack, such as pawn storms, as well as plans which are tailored to the particular characteristics of a position. Another focus is on ways of setting up mate threats. This DVD combines Lilov’s animated presentation style with a selection of first-class games. Let yourself be fascinated and inspired by the attacks of the masters - so that in your next attacking game, it will be you having all the fun! Video running time: 4 hours   System requirements   Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 or Windows 8, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Every chess coach preaches that attacking a stranded king in the center is the easiest thing to do, but how about attacking a king which has already castled? More often than not kings hide on the kingside, right? So, that’s a good reason for you to know how to attack a king which has castled short. FM Valeri Lilov is glad to help you in this tricky business! His DVD focuses on a number fool-proof plans and techniques for successfully destroying the enemy’s fortress to bring the opponent’s king to justice! In a number of very instructive lectures, FM Lilov discusses g7 and h7 sacrifices, as well as various plans and ideas typical for certain positional setups, including opening the f-file and destroying the pawn bastions in front of the king. In addition, Valeri skillfully presents some of the most effective techniques for creating checkmating threats for the opponent. His presentation will often leave you with a lasting impression from the splendid examples Valeri has carefully selected to illustrate his points. Now it’s time to enjoy the art of chess with FM Valeri Lilov! Video running time: 3 h 59 min       System requirements   Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard    

For a chess player, chess pieces are like specific tools in a toolbox. We need to know how to use them best, like a craftsman knows their tools. We shouldn't use a screwdriver to hammer in a nail; and we shouldn't use the queen just for defence. This series will show you in great detail the specific qualities of each chess piece, so that you can maximize their effectiveness and thus improve your game. Queens are the true ladies of the chessboard. They are dangerous attackers, but poor defenders. They dislike dirty work, and often wait until other pieces prepare space for them. Let us learn together how to find the best spot for the queen in the early middlegame, how to navigate this piece around the board, how to time the queen attack, how to decide whether to exchange it or not, and much more! • Video running time: 5 hours (English) • Extra: Additional database with exercises • Training with ChessBase apps – Play key positions against Fritz on various levels Jan Markos is a Slovak chess grandmaster, coach, and author, a former European Youth Champion. His book "Under the Surface" won the ECF Book of the Year Award in 2018. His most recent chess book "The Secret Ingredient", co-authored with GM David Navara, focuses on practical aspects of over-theboard play. 02 Include all pieces in the attack 1a 15:35 min.03 Include all pieces in the attack 1b 13:41 min.04 Include all pieces in the attack 2a 22:23 min.05 Include all pieces in the attack 2b 13: 55 min.06 Development and pace in the attack 1a 15:51 min.07 Development and pace in the attack 1b 13:04 min.08 Development and pace in the attack 2a 13:30 min.09 Development and pace in the attack 2b 29:19 min.10 Colour Schemes 1 16:57 min.11 Colour Schemes 2 17:50 min. The Danish International Master Jacob Aagaard, 30, has already published a whole array of chess books, including the prize-winning "Excelling at chess". The CD is based on the new instructional Fritz8-Chess Media System: all the lectures are presented in their entirety with video pictures and synchronised chess graphics. There is no better way to explain chess. This is how chess training can be real fun! System requirements: PC 233, 64 MB RAM, CD-ROM drive, sound card, mouse, Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98, Windows Media Player 9. Attention: this course is a supplementary program for Fritz8 and can only be run if the chess program Fritz8, Shredder8, Junior8, Hiarcs9 or Tiger15 is installed on the PC. Neither Fritz8, Shredder8, Junior8, Hiarcs9 or Tiger15 is supplied with this training course.

For a chess player, chess pieces are like specific tools in a toolbox. We need to know how to use them best, like a craftsman knows their tools. We shouldn't use a screwdriver to hammer in a nail; and we shouldn't use the queen just for defence. This series will show you in great detail the specific qualities of each chess piece, so that you can maximize their effectiveness and thus improve your game. Everyone knows that a rook is dangerous on the 7th rank, and that it belongs behind the pawn. However, there is so much more to learn about this inconspicuous piece! Let us explore together how the rooks should enter the game in the early middlegame, how they operate on open files and how they sometimes join a deadly attack, being transferred in front of the pawn chain. We will also discuss the cooperation of the rooks and many more topics.   Video running time: 5 hours (English) Extra: Additional database with exercises Training with ChessBase apps – Play key positions against Fritz on various levels   Jan Markos is a Slovak chess grandmaster, coach, and author, a former European Youth Champion. His book "Under the Surface" won the ECF Book of the Year Award in 2018. His most recent chess book "The Secret Ingredient", co-authored with GM David Navara, focuses on practical aspects of over-theboard play.

Bundle Offer For a chess player, chess pieces are like specific tools in a toolbox. We need to know how to use them best, like a craftsman knows their tools. We shouldn't use a screwdriver to hammer in a nail; and we shouldn't use the queen just for defence. This series will show you in great detail the specific qualities of each chess piece, so that you can maximize their effectiveness and thus improve your game. Queens are the true ladies of the chessboard. They are dangerous attackers, but poor defenders. They dislike dirty work, and often wait until other pieces prepare space for them. Let us learn together how to find the best spot for the queen in the early middlegame, how to navigate this piece around the board, how to time the queen attack, how to decide whether to exchange it or not, and much more! • Video running time: 5 hours (English) • Extra: Additional database with exercises • Training with ChessBase apps – Play key positions against Fritz on various levels   Jan Markos: Middlegame Secrets Vol.2 – The potential of the Rook For a chess player, chess pieces are like specific tools in a toolbox. We need to know how to use them best, like a craftsman knows their tools. We shouldn't use a screwdriver to hammer in a nail; and we shouldn't use the queen just for defence. This series will show you in great detail the specific qualities of each chess piece, so that you can maximize their effectiveness and thus improve your game. Everyone knows that a rook is dangerous on the 7th rank, and that it belongs behind the pawn. However, there is so much more to learn about this inconspicuous piece! Let us explore together how the rooks should enter the game in the early middlegame, how they operate on open files and how they sometimes join a deadly attack, being transferred in front of the pawn chain. We will also discuss the cooperation of the rooks and many more topics.   Video running time: 5 hours (English) Extra: Additional database with exercises Training with ChessBase apps – Play key positions against Fritz on various levels Jan Markos is a Slovak chess grandmaster, coach, and author, a former European Youth Champion. His book "Under the Surface" won the ECF Book of the Year Award in 2018. His most recent chess book "The Secret Ingredient", co-authored with GM David Navara, focuses on practical aspects of over-theboard play.  System requirements: Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows 8.1, DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9 and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 / 8 or 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVDROM drive and internet connection for program activation. 

Gambit play and the joy of sacrificing is an important part of the improving process. In order to become a strong player you must learn to attack and make combinations. Many continue to play in an aggressive style throughout an entire chess liftetime! So on this allnew ChessBase DVD FIDE Senior Trainer and IM Andrew Martin will show you how to go about this in the right way. There are several foolproof ways to improve at chess. They are: 1) Working hard at targeted subjects. 2) Analysing one’s own games. Studying master games. 3) Playing a lot to gain experience. 4) Taking good advice from a coach and thereby saving time. This is where the ChessBase DVD comes into its own. There are many modern brilliancies and fascinating ideas on this DVD. Comprehensive notes are provided to most of these games for your later enjoyment. Gambit play is still alive! we hope you embrace it. Video running time: 3 hours 21 min.   System requirements Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

Understanding how to use pawns and how to handle different pawn structures are important topics for young or improving players to consider. On this new ChessBase DVD. IM and FIDE Senior Trainer Andrew Martin investigates the notion that ‘pawns are the soul of chess’ and tries to explain exactly what this means. The effective use of pawns in the opening leads to the correct development of the pieces and a good game springs naturally from there. The pawn structure must be considered throughout the game and this is something that Martin also touches upon. The viewer will be treated to a tour of excellent games, both old and new, many from the period 2012-2014, which highlight key ideas about the correct use of pawns and from which one cannot fail to improve one’s technique. Thus this DVD is ideal for players below 1800 or indeed ambitious players of any level. • Video running time: 4 hours 03 minutes• With interactive training including video feedback • Database with 50 essential games• Including CB 12 Reader System requirements Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 12/Fritz 13 or included Reader and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 or Windows 8, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet connection for program activation.

Auf dieser DVD zeigt der erfahrene Trainer und Internationale Meister Andrew Martin wie das geht. Andrew Martin sagt über seine DVD: “Seit dem Erscheinen der ersten Ausgabe von ‘Basics of Winning Chess’ sind über zehn Jahre vergangen, und die Zeit ist reif für eine Rückkehr zu diesem Projekt. Schließlich hat sich das Schach im letzten Jahrzehnt dramatisch verändert und das Wissen über das Spiel und die Grundlagen des Schachs scheint umfangreicher denn je zu sein. Da müssen wir am Ball bleiben! Man sagt oft, Spitzenspieler spielen wie Maschinen. Haben sie erst einmal eine Gewinnstellung erreicht, gewinnen sie auch. Es wirkt, als würden sie irgendwann in der Partie auf Autopilot schalten und mühelos gewinnen. Diese DVD zeigt, wie sich diese Schachtechnik entwickelt hat. Das beginnt bei einfachen Grundlagen und führt zur Technik heutiger Meister. Diese Beispiele helfen uns, technisch selber so gut zu spielen, wie es uns möglich ist.“ „Version 2.0 zeigt zahlreiche Beispiele aus der modernen Praxis. Praktisch alle Partien sind lehrreich und von hoher Qualität. Beinahe alle wurden vor kurzem gespielt und sind mit Kommentaren und Analysen versehen. Diese DVD weist den Weg, wie man besser Schach spielt. Die DVD bietet eine Rundtour durchs moderne Schach und ist besonders nützlich für Spieler mit einer Ratingzahl von 1200-2200.”   • Trainings-Videos: 6 Stunden 6 Minuten• Interaktives Training mit Videofeedback• Exklusive Trainingdatenbank mit vielen kommentierten Partien• Mit CB 12 – Reader   Systemvoraussetzungen   Mindestens: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 Grafikkarte mit 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM Laufwerk, Windows Media Player 9, Chessbase12/Fritz 13 oder mitgelieferter Reader und Internetverbindung zur Programmaktivierung. Empfohlen: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7 oder Windows 8, DirectX10 Grafikkarte (oder kompatibel) mit 512 MB RAM oder mehr, 100% DirectX10 kompatible Soundkarte, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM Laufwerk und Internetverbindung zur Programmaktivierung.   Nur auf Englisch lieferbar !

Planning is the most difficult part of the game of chess. It is everywhere - we use it from the opening to the ending. A plan is based on evaluation and that evaluation is based on the different static and dynamic elements of the position. But what the chess books don’t describe is the direction of the plan. The aim of every plan is the exploitation of weakness! So, spot the weakness, fix it and then just attack it. There are different kinds of plans - typical plans, based on the structures and analogical plans, based on similar constellations of the pieces on the board. The subject is really big, but the author wanted to show examples of how to construct plans in positions with pawn majorities on the flanks and to teach you how to exploit this element properly. Video running time: 3 hrs 19 min.   Adrian Mikhalchishin, a Grandmaster since 1978, is currently among the top 5 world trainers and the Chairman of the FIDE Trainers’ Commission. He trained the team of USSR in 1980’s, national teams of Slovenia, Poland and the Netherlands, and was the trainer of Anatoly Karpov (1980-1986), trained Zsuzsa Polgar, Alexander Beliavsky, Maja Chiburdanidze, Arkadij Naiditsch and Vassily Ivanchuk.   System requirements: Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows XP, Windows Vista, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

The correct technique of exchanging is the most important ability of Grandmasters! Which pieces to swap and which pieces to keep, whether to recapture with a piece or with a pawn, these are questions which every player of every level has to answer many times during a single game. And the greatest difference between GMs and amateurs is not in opening knowledge or in calculation power, but in this simple technique. The great Botvinnik even said that chess is just multiple exchanges. He explained Fischer’s technique of play: He had never bad pieces - he always exchanged them for his opponent’s strong pieces. Video running time: 3 hrs   Adrian Mikhalchishin, a Grandmaster since 1978, is currently among the top 5 world trainers and the Chairman of the FIDE Trainers’ Commission. He trained the team of USSR in 1980’s, national teams of Slovenia, Poland and the Netherlands, and was the trainer of Anatoly Karpov (1980-1986), trained Zsuzsa Polgar, Alexander Beliavsky, Maja Chiburdanidze, Arkadij Naiditsch and Vassily Ivanchuk.   System requirements: Pentium-Processor at 300 Mhz or higher, 64 MB RAM, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, DVD drive, mouse, soundcard

Aaron Nimzowitsch knew how to teach chess and he knew how to study the middlegame: His advice was to “study typical pawn structures.” Every typical structure has its typical plans and to know these plans helps you to find your way in these positions. On this DVD the author presents and explains the most common central structures every chessplayer should know: The Hedgehog, the Maroczy, Hanging pawns and the Isolani. • Video running time: 5 hours 6 min (English) • With interactive training including video feedback • Exclusive training database with 78 extra games• Including CB 12 Reader   System requirements Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 12/Fritz 13 or included Reader and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 100% DirectX10 compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet connection for program activation.