Weapons of Chess: An Omnibus of Chess Strategies by Bruce Pandolfini

Author:Bruce Pandolfini
Language: eng
Format: epub, pdf
Published: 2018-09-26T16:00:00+00:00

A FULL STRENGTH ROOK

The play from Diagram 139 highlights an important difference in the value of the two rooks. A rook operating at full strength is normally worth the equivalent of five pawns (or “points”). In Diagram 139, it is only the Black rook that is pulling its true weight, seizing the open b-file and attacking the White pawn weaknesses at b3 and d4. The White rook, playing a defensive role, is working at only a fraction of its potential. This isn’t a five-point rook.

Rooks, then, are much better pieces when they are on the attack. They are active and enjoy full mobility. They are full-value pieces. Rooks on defense are cumbersome and devalued; a rook’s powers are diluted by defensive chores.

When playing against an isolated d-pawn, aim for a rook ending with active rooks. Seize open files; attack enemy weaknesses; try to keep your opponent’s rook on the defense.

Conversely, when you have the isolated d-pawn, use your minor pieces to guard the pawn. This relieves your rook for active duty on open files, where it does its best work. Don’t bog down your rook with passive, defensive drudgery.

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