Check in chess
How to play chess
What does check mean in chess?
A king is in check when an enemy piece attacks him. You must always get out of check on your very next move. You are not allowed to leave your king in check, or to move into check.
| ♚ | |||||||
| ♖ | |||||||
| ♔ |
The rules
- There are three ways to escape check: move the king to a safe square, capture the piece that is giving check, or block the attack with another piece (not possible against a knight).
- If you cannot do any of these, it is checkmate and the game is over.
- You do not have to say "check", but it is polite.
- A piece that is pinned to its king cannot move away, because that would expose the king.
Common mistakes
- Not noticing that your king is in check and trying to make another move.
- Giving check just because you can, without a plan. It often drives the king to a better place.
Remember
When your king is attacked: move, capture or block.