Ponderchess / Endgames
Hold the barrier, then switch to checks from behind.
Keep your king in front of the pawn.
Use your rook to block the attacking king's advance.
When the pawn advances, switch to rear checks.
Follow the highlighted lines and watch how the pieces work together.
Rule
The Philidor position: the third-rank defence
You defend as Black. Your king stays in front of the pawn, on e8. The rook on b6 forms a barrier on Black's third rank.
Apply the technique against tablebase defence. Reset the position whenever you want a fresh start.
Click or drag to move · Arrow keys + Enter to play
Your turn · black
Keep your position defensible. Patient, accurate moves matter more than winning material.
Your technique checklist
Choose an idea to focus on as you play.
Keep these ideas in mind as the position changes.
Your king stands in front of the pawn. Keep your rook on your third rank, here the sixth, so White's king cannot advance to it without walking into checks.
As soon as White pushes the pawn to the sixth rank, the king loses its shelter in front of the pawn. Swing your rook to the first rank and check from behind. The king cannot escape the checks, and the game is drawn.
Make the idea yours
No timer. No score. Just a moment to check your understanding.
