1000 x Checkmates

In this extended update of the ChessBase mating course, Lubomir Ftacnik initiates you into the fine art of mating your opponent. In four videos the grandmaster explains typical mating patterns. At the same time, two small collections of material allow systematic assimilation of the subject of delivering mate. After that, it is all about answering the training questions in 1000 mating exercises. The positions are classified in different ways. The simplest of these differentiates between mate in 1, 2 or 3 moves. There is a methodological way of accessing the 1000 mating exercises via 15 main themes. These include themes such as back rank mate, smothered mate, the king in the centre or motifs involving the h-file. The systematic solving of exercises on specific themes may be a little easier but it will certainly help you when similar motifs crop up in your own games.

• Video running time: 60 minutes

Lubomir Ftacnik is a Slovak grandmaster, long term cooperator of ChessBase and diligent analyst. For this DVD he has used his experience of three decades on the international chess scene. Just as they have done for many top players, the openings with 1.d4 have served him well throughout his active career. The lines against various defences have been forged in the fire of battles over the board. Learning more about the 1.d4 repertoire will bring any player a few steps closer to the coveted grandmaster level.