Mini-game explained step-by-step

In this lesson, you will see a complete mini-game, explained calmly and without technical jargon.

It is not a perfect or championship game. It is a realistic game, like those played by beginners when they start to play well.

Starting Position

Set up the board in the standard starting position. White begins the game.

Move 1

1. White: e4
The pawn in front of the king advances two squares. This move opens the center and allows pieces to be brought out.

1... Black: e5
Black responds in kind, occupying the center and preparing for development.

Move 2

2. White: Nf3
The knight moves to f3. It attacks the e5 pawn and begins to participate in the game.

2... Black: Nc6
Black defends the attacked pawn and develops a piece.

Move 3

3. White: Bc4
The bishop moves out and points towards the center. Another piece enters play.

3... Black: Bc5
Black does the same: develops their bishop.

Move 4

4. White: O-O
White castles. The king is safer, and the rook comes into play.

4... Black: Nf6
Black develops another knight and attacks the central pawn.

Move 5

5. White: d3
The pawn protects the center and opens the way for the bishop. It is a quiet and solid move.

5... Black: d6
Black does the same: reinforces the center.

What you need to understand from this mini-game:

• The king has not been attacked from the beginning.
• Both players have developed pieces.
• Both kings are safe.
• No one has blundered pieces.

Now it's your turn

Set up the board and play a game with another person, trying to copy these ideas:

• Develop pieces.
• Don't blunder pieces.
• Castle when you can.

It doesn't matter if your game doesn't look exactly like this one. The important thing is that you understand what you are doing.

Later you will learn how to write these moves in your notebook, like chess players do.