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Mikhail Tal, known as "The Magician from Riga," was a legendary chess grandmaster celebrated for his creative, attacking style and fearless combinations. He became the youngest World Chess Champion in 1960 and remains an inspiration for his imaginative gameplay and lasting impact on chess.
Choosing a quality chess set is essential for beginners. Indian Chess Company offers expertly crafted, durable sets with clear, stable pieces and free global shipping—making it easy for new players to start and enjoy learning chess.
Are you a chess enthusiast and just getting into learning defensive moves on the chess board? If yes, you must know about the Slav Defense. This blog will teach you about Slav Defense, giving you a strong tool to boost your game. Chess players who enjoy defensive openings with counterattack chances love the Slav Defense for its strength and adaptability. If you want to improve your defensive moves while playing with black pieces in chess, the Slav opening is your go-to plan.
Get ready to explore Slav Defense and its different variations as we uncover every minute detail in this blog.
Let's begin!
The Slav Defense is a chess opening that arises after the moves -
1. d4 d5
2. c4 c6.
Slav Defense is one of the most respected chess defenses for Black. It offers a sturdy pawn structure while keeping your options open for dynamic play. Unlike the Queen's Gambit Declined, the Slav Defence chess keeps the c8-bishop free to move on the chess board.
For Instance: White pushes forward, aiming to control the center with d4 and c4. You, playing with the Black pieces, in turn respond with …d5 and …c6. That's the essence of the Slav Defense: it's a Black defense chess strategy that's all about resilience and preparation.
Are you curious about how Slav Defense works on the chess board? We will break it down for you further in this blog.
Slav Defense has extreme flexibility. It adjusts to your approach, whether you face a tactical genius or a positional expert. This defensive opening doesn't just protect but allows you to strike back in the game. Top players like Vladimir Kramnik and Vishwanathan Anand have used Slav Defense in their games which shows its effectiveness.
For Instance -
Imagine you're playing Black. White starts with 1. d4, and you answer ...d5. White then plays 2. c4—what do you do next? If ...c6 came to mind, you're already thinking like someone who uses the Slav Defence! This move backs up your d5-pawn and keeps your position firm.
Want to test this setup yourself? Grab a board (or one from our online store!) and play it out.
Now, Slav Defense isn’t just about one particular way of moving pieces on the chess board. There are several variations of Slav Defense. Let's explore some of the most popular ones.
Take it up a notch with the Semi-Slav Defense: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6. This hybrid combines the Slav Defense with …e6, creating a pawn triangle (c6-d5-e6) that’s tough to crack. It’s a favorite of players who love complex, strategic battles. The Semi-Slav has a reputation for leading to rich middlegames—perfect if you thrive on outmaneuvering your opponent.
Have you ever tried the Semi-Slav Defense? If not, why not give it a shot in your next game and let us know how it goes in the comments below?
For the adventurous, there’s the Marshall Defense: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nf6?!. Wait—didn’t we say …c6? Well, this cheeky sideline (sometimes linked to the Slav opening) throws White off with an early knight move. It’s risky—White can reply 3. cxd5 and gain an edge—but it’s a fun way to surprise casual opponents.
Pro tip: Pair this with a Slav Defense chess mindset—stay solid if White punishes your boldness!
Also known as the “Slav Defense with …a6,” (1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 a6) it is a modern twist in the game of chess. The quirky …a6 prepares …b5, challenging White’s center early. It’s a favorite for players who like to mix things up.
Challenge: Set up this position and play both sides. Can you find White’s best response?
The Slav defense blends beautifully with the black pieces from a defensive standpoint. Here’s why it is effective:
Let’s take this example - White continues to develop a large center with pawns set at d4 and e4. You play the Slav Defense moves and then start to launch your pieces. This will crumble white’s advantage in the game.
No opening is foolproof, and the Slav Defense has its pitfalls. Here’s a classic trap to watch out for:
Solution: Stay alert and consider …a6 or …Bf5 to keep your position flexible.
Ready to master the Slav Defense? Here’s your game plan:
Pick one variation—say, the Slav Defense with …a6—and play five games with it this week. Share your results with us!
Incorporating the Slav Defense chess opening is not just about winning the game. It helps you become a better player. You learn patience, planning, and how to squeeze out a win from defensive positions.
The Slav Defense isn’t just an opening, it’s a mindset. It’s about standing firm, biding your time, and striking when the moment’s right. From the Marshall Defense to the Semi-Slav Defense, this Black defense chess gem offers endless possibilities.
So, what’s your next move? Excited to try the Slav Defense?
At Indian Chess Company, we’ve got the best quality chess sets for you priced right in your budget. Browse our wide range of chess sets collection here, and keep levelling up your game of chess.
Chess isn't merely a game, it is an actual battlefield for your mind and only those who maintain patience under pressure win the match. Most of us might think that becoming a grandmaster in chess is the highest achievement in life. But how true it is to be at this level? We'll unwrap it all from how to become a grandmaster in chess, and what a grandmaster even is in this blog.
Sit back and get ready for an amazing ride through the journey of becoming Grandmaster in Chess.
It’s the top title in the world of chess which is handed out by FIDE, the big chess federation globally. Being a grandmaster means you’re exceptional in the game of chess. You’ve got the skills, the wins, and the confidence to prove it.
But becoming a chess grandmaster is not a cake walk, you've got to hit 2500 and bring in three "grandmaster norms" from very top-level tournaments before getting it. We will go a little deeper later in this blog.
Have you ever been curious about how many grandmasters exist in chess? Fast forward to today, in March 2025, there are more than 1800 grandmasters under the FIDE listing. That’s a pretty exclusive club, and it’s growing every year. Now, let’s zoom in on India because, wow, are we killing it! How many chess grandmasters are there in the world from India? We’re sitting at 85, and that number’s climbing fast.
It all kicked off in 1988 when Viswanathan Anand became India's first grandmaster. He was India’s first grandmaster, a trailblazer who lit the fuse. Fast forward to today, and you’ve got P. Shyaamnikhil joined the ranks as the 85th Indian grandmaster in chess in 2024. At Indian Chess Company, we are quite amped to be a part of the chess explosion, supplying boards and pieces to such players dreaming high.
This is a frequently asked question: what rating is grandmaster in chess? Well, the magical number is 2500. That is your Elo rating, a system that sizes up how good you are as compared with everyone else. To give you an idea, a decent club player might be around 1500, while the absolute beasts-like Magnus Carlsen-float above 2800. Hitting 2500 is certainly a big deal and adventure, but there lies something quite more than that. You still have to score those norms, which will come to our attention in a little while.
Let’s get down to brass tacks: how do you become a chess grandmaster? You have a long way ahead of you, but doing it with some heart and hustle is very much possible. Here is how the stepping stones to grandmaster success look like:
Abhimanyu Mishra, the youngest grandmaster in chess, was only 12 in 2021 when. Quite insane, right? Still, you do not have to be a child genius; the early start simply gives you more time to absorb all this. Get a chess set (Indian Chess Company has some of the best Chess Sets), learn the moves, and begin playing!
Getting better at Chess is primarily about identifying patterns. So, get well acquainted with tactics-forks, pins, skewers, and learn how to win piece exchanges. Endgames are big, too; do not ignore them.
Remember, you need a FIDE rating to even think of becoming a grandmaster. You need to sign up for rated tournaments, while local events are just fine to start. Your rating starts when you are basically getting into the arena, and gradually goes up depending on your rising skill.
So, what is that rating for chess grandmaster again? Right, 2500. Sizing up your rating by beating stronger players is simply mandatory.
This is where things get tricky. A norm can be thought of as a gold star from a strong tournament. You need:
27-plus games total.
Opponents averaging 2380 or above.
A performance rating of 2600 or above every time.
Games against titled players from various countries.
Norms are not going to come from events with a little bit of popularity. We are thinking of the Dubai Open or, maybe, the Tata Steel Chess Tournament. It is time to pack those bags, give all your heart to the game, and go against another elite class.
Usually, it takes about 10-15 years for someone to become a grandmaster. It hurts to lose; yet, it teaches you what you cannot learn from winning. So, keep this one in your mind, it is the consistency on which you will have to fall.
A real good chess set truly knows how to get you motivated to practice. Indian Chess Company makes some incredible wooden tournament chess boards and pieces, the perfect things for anyone dreaming of becoming a grandmaster!
India has really developed a reputation within the core of the chess community these days. The grandmasters being raised in this country are definitely changing the very narrative of the game, and it is astounding to see. This whole affair started with Anand, the first chess grandmaster of India. He did not merely win games; he made India fall in love with chess. With five world titles under his belt, he is the godfather of Indian chess.
The new generation of Indian chess marvels include the trio: Gukesh D, Praggnanandhaa, and Arjun Erigaisi. These young minds are super talented. Gukesh, aged 18, conquered history as the youngest grandmaster to lift the world title in 2024.
At Indian Chess Company, we are surfing this wonderful wave and assisting players with the finest equipment to pave their way toward excellence.
Still wondering about how to become a grandmaster in chess? Here is the bit of advice I have accrued:
Pick an old game or two of Anand's or Carlsen's and figure out why these games were so good.
Don't choke on the clock; it is as much an enemy as your opponent.
Keep the brain rosy—anything goes: yoga, short run, whatever.
But play, play, play. Pick up a set from the Indian Chess Company and start clocking in those hours.
We don't only sell chess sets. Our products are handmade and designed to uplift your performance in the game of chess, whether you are a beginner or the one aspiring for 2500. Chess in India is on fire, and we are here to ensure it stays that way. Come down to Indian Chess Company and grab something special.
Becoming a grandmaster in chess is a huge goal, but it can surely be achieved with very hard work on your part. From figuring out what's a grandmaster in chess to working hard for that 2500 rating, every stage is a victory. And with the number of chess grandmasters being churned out in India these days, the question is, why not you?
Keep moving in your journey of becoming the next grandmaster.
Chess is more than just a game—it’s a timeless tradition, a battle of wits, and, for many, a work of art. While the rules of chess remain the same, the boards and pieces themselves can vary dramatically, from simple plastic sets to breathtaking masterpieces crafted from the finest materials. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, luxury chess sets are more than just playing tools; they’re symbols of elegance, status, and passion for the game.
In the following blog, you will read about the most expensive Chess sets in the world and the different special materials that are used for making luxury chess sets. Not only this, if you are looking for affordable luxury chess sets, you’ll find the right reasons why Indian Chess Company is the first choice for chess enthusiasts to buy all types of Chess boards, chess pieces, complete chess boards, and chess accessories.
When you hit the internet looking for chess sets, you will find various types of chess sets made from different materials, but when you turn on the luxury chess sets filter in your search, you will be stunned to see the exceptional quality chess sets that are out there.
Skilled artisans create these sets with expert hands through the combination of unique and luxurious materials, which transforms these chess sets into valuable artistic collections. People who play chess or collect it as collectors should consider acquiring a luxury chess set because it expresses their refined taste and honors the game's historical development.
Chess sets come in a range of material options that bring distinctive appearance features along with different sensory experiences. Out of the many different types of chess sets available, these are the most common ones:
Wood is the classic choice for chess sets and is admired because of its durability and natural beauty. High-end wooden chess sets are usually made from exotic woods like ebony, rosewood, and mahogany. Chess players and enthusiasts are both drawn to these chess sets for their light/dark-themed visual design that gives wooden chess sets a unique statement of class.
Metal chess sets provide enthusiasts with a modern design that fits contemporary style definitions. Brass, together with bronze, makes up the most common metal components, while stainless steel is used for basic chess sets. Regarding luxury chess sets, you may find gold and silver used in the ultra-lavishly crafted chess boards and sets. The exquisite design details, along with the pronounced weight in these sets, enhance their overall charm.
Luxury chess sets are derived from stone materials, including marble alongside onyx and alabaster. Luxurious stone chess sets gain their special elegance from their natural mineral markings as well as their polished features. Luxury chess sets possess enduring quality, making them stand as valuable long-term possessions.
Glass and crystal chess sets provide superb visual transparency along with dazzling brilliance. Handcrafted glass pieces typically used in these sets reflect light beautifully when placed on the board.
Luxury isn’t just about materials—it’s also about design. Custom chess sets often feature intricate carvings, historical themes, or unique artistic interpretations. These sets are true conversation starters and often one-of-a-kind.
When it comes to luxury chess sets, the materials used play a huge role in determining their value. Here are some of the most expensive and sought-after materials:
The JewelRoyale Chess Set holds the true definition of luxury, and it is in the top position on the list of most expensive chess sets worldwide. This chess set is designed by the British company JewelRoyale, and it is adorned with a price tag of $9.8 million.
For starters, it’s made from a combination of gold, platinum, and over 1,000 carats of diamonds and other precious gemstones. Each piece is a masterpiece of jewelry design, featuring intricate details and unparalleled craftsmanship. The kings and queens are adorned with crowns set with diamonds, while the pawns feature delicate floral motifs. The board itself is made from polished gemstones, creating a dazzling playing surface.
This chess set serves as an example of ultimate extravagance in chess set design, although only a few people can afford to possess it.
But we have luxury chess sets that you can surely buy under your budget.
Indian Chess Company ensures everyone gets their hands on premium chess sets regardless of their skill level or hobby dedication. We reject the idea of using expensive materials like gold, diamonds, etc., in our chess sets yet maintain the reputation for delivering various affordable, premium, and luxurious chess sets to customers.
Our collection includes:
Chess is a game that transcends time and culture, and the right chess set can make your experience even more special. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of wood, the modern elegance of metal, or the luxurious appeal of stone, Indian Chess Company has something for you. Visit our official website to explore our collection and discover the perfect chess set to elevate your game.
Chess requires players to develop strategic thinking abilities while remaining flexible at all times during the game. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, understanding how each piece moves is the key to get better at the sport. One common question beginners often ask is, “Can chess pieces move backwards?”
The response to this basic question will lead you to a better understanding of the game which beginners must grasp. In this blog, you will read about piece movements alongside their effect on gameplay and introduces vital chess strategies designed for beginner success in board games.
Knowing basic movements of chess pieces forms the essential foundation for learning advanced strategies. Let’s break it down for every piece to make it easier for you to understand -
The pawns stand apart because they exclusively move forward by one square. The move pattern of these pieces includes one square forward and a diagonal capture if needed. However, pawns cannot move backward. The restricted movement of pawns makes them vital to chess strategy because your kings and queens can easily become exposed when you place them unsafely.
The rook piece possesses the capability to shift across any square number of spaces in all horizontal, vertical and diagonal directions. Their movement in reverse direction gives them great adaptability when playing the endgame phase.
A knight travels in an L-movement pattern which requires moving across two orthogonal squares before changing direction with one orthogonal square. Knights have a unique ability to bypass other pieces and can move in all directions which enables them to shift position backwards from their starting spot.
Bishops achieve diagonal movement to travel any distance across the board. The opening maneuver of rooks applies to bishops as well which lets them recede backward within their diagonal paths as they protect distant squares.
Among all board pieces the queen ranks as the most significant power. The queen controls movement through any number of squares by advancing and retreating and by progressing across all horizontal and vertical directions and diagonals. Her backward movement serves as one vital element which makes her both offensive and defensive game play superior.
Kings move one square in any direction, including backward. While their movement is limited, their ability to retreat is vital for avoiding checkmate.
Understanding these movements is the foundation of any beginner chess strategy. Knowing which pieces can move backward and how to use them effectively can significantly improve your gameplay.
Chess is often compared to a battlefield, and each piece is a soldier with unique abilities. The way your pieces move directly impacts your chess strategy. Here’s how:
Now that you understand how pieces move, here are some of the best tips for you so you can win more games.
Most of the game unfolds through the mid-game phase. The following mid-game chess strategies remain effective for your play:
The outcome of every match happens within the endgame phase. During this key phase you should remember to follow these recommendations:
Although you read and learnt enough about the different strategies, gaining basic knowledge does not prevent you from making mistakes on the chessboard. The following list contains important mistakes that beginners should be careful to avoid:
While no strategy is truly unbeatable, some approaches are highly effective, especially for beginners. The Queen’s Gambit, for example, is a classic opening that can give white a strong positional advantage. Similarly, focusing on basic principles like controlling the center, developing your pieces, and protecting your king will serve you well in most games.
The ability of certain chess pieces to move backward adds depth and complexity to the game. Understanding how to use this ability is a key part of any beginner chess strategy. By mastering the basics of piece movement, developing a solid opening repertoire, and practicing mid-game and endgame strategies, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable chess player.
Whether you’re exploring the best start chess moves or diving into advanced tactics, every game is an opportunity to improve. So, grab a chess board, apply these chess tips for beginners, and get better at this sport.
The game of Chess requires both patience and vision to succeed. Beginners may find the chess board difficult at first yet proper techniques allow anyone to get better at the game with time. Are you a beginner in Chess and want to improve your game, this guide will introduce you to core chess strategies meant for beginners while presenting beginner chess strategy basics that enable the best positions against opponents.
Not just that, beginners will also explore the most effective opening moves and about crucial strategies for executing chess moves during gameplay.
When you're just starting out, it's easy to focus solely on moving pieces without having a clear strategy in mind. However, attaining mastery in beginner chess strategy is extremely essential for building a solid foundation.
A well-executed strategic game plan enables you to achieve control over the board while defending your pieces together and creating attack opportunities at the same time.
Learning basic chess strategies gives you the much-needed confidence to continue your journey in the game.
Next, in this blog, we will explore the essential elements of chess strategy for beginners.
New chess players often ask the same basic question about what is the best first chess move. The answer to this question may vary based on how you approach the game and the plan you make to tackle the moves of the opponent during the game.
But going for the best first move also depends on your position, whether White or Black.
White has an advantage during the first move, so the standard first choice, e4, is considered the most effective. By moving 1.e4, White controls the middle of the board to enable movement of queen and bishop pieces, including Queen's Gambit.
You will read about Queen’s Gambit in the latter part of this blog.
Another great first move for White players is 1.d4, which strikes the centre yet promotes a controlled positional strategy.
As a beginner, you may go with any of the two moves mentioned above.
Black should aim to reply to White’s opening move yet also preserve equilibrium on the board. Move 1.e4 meets its most frequently observed reply in the form of 1...e5, which both reproduces White's starting strategy of centre control and secures dominance there. A safe response to 1.d4 should be 1...d5 since it allows control of the centre for Black.
One of the most important chessboard strategies is controlling the centre of the board. The centre consists of the squares e4, d4, e5, and d5. Controlling these squares allows your pieces to move freely and exert influence over the entire board.
Changing a piece position sequentially affects how you execute chess strategy patterns during the game's first phase. The following crucial guidelines will help you succeed in chess plays:
Once you shift to the mid-game period after completing the opening phase, you must focus on strategizing your further moves. Here are some of the best mid-game strategies you can try when you play Chess next time.
Despite possessing a correct strategic plan, beginners commonly face costly mistakes that lead to losing the game. The following chess guidance for novices shows you ways to steer clear of normal beginner errors:
Chess requires patients because the game demands this trait from all its players. Avoid pushing your moves too fast since it can lead to premature losses.
Chess players recognize The Queen's Gambit as among the most successful methods of opening the game. It begins with the moves 1.d4 d5 2.c4. White offers his pawn to possess control of the centre while developing quicker than Black.
Undoubtedly, the Queen’s Gambit opening technique demands practice, yet it provides strong capabilities to beginning chess players who want to lead during the opening move phase.
After strategy, the implementation of tactics constitutes a crucial element in chess gameplay. Memorize the following strategic Chess moves below:
The journey of Chess deepens with each match because every match presents fresh opportunities to improve your skills. Your strategic moves should include controlling the central areas through moves made by pawns and pieces.
The basic strategy principles when applied properly will help you advance your skills in playing Chess. The tips and strategies discussed in this guide offer sufficient training for chess beginners who wish to understand their first chess maneuver or enhance their middle-game tactics.
Practice more and learn more so you can win more games.
What are you buying me this Valentine? Before you get this question from your partner, it is better you start searching for the right Valentine's gift for your better half. But finding a thoughtful Valentine's gift isn’t a cakewalk. That’s why we are here with this blog with a curated list of the best Valentine's gifts featuring chess pieces and chess sets.
Chess-themed presents represent an ideal choice for love expression because they appeal to partners who love strategic games, elegant designs, or sentimental actions. Chess represents more than gaming because it mirrors the essence of life alongside love and forward-thinking thinking approaches to decisions.
Our exquisite product line consists of high-end chess sets that are meant to deliver charming gifts to both chess fans and anyone who enjoys thoughtful gifts.
This guide provides the perfect selection of presents tailored for all Valentine's Day recipients, including women and men.
It’s time for you to choose the best option for your partner.
The traditional personalized chess set presents a gift which is truly unique for anyone who understands the proper definition of gifting. Our careful production technique produces these sets for customization through initials and special dates. The wooden chess set’s contemporary design will beautifully display your caring spirit through this gift.
A personalized chess set serves as more than game equipment because it becomes a sentimental symbol that will maintain its value for several years. The recurrent matches will trigger both memories and appreciation for your romantic gesture through selecting this meaningful present.
Personalized chess sets are perfect for those seeking the first Valentine-present for their boyfriends or looking for a romantic gift for their girlfriends. The product also suits those who take pleasure in different chess sets, in addition to people who love to play chess whenever they get a chance.
An engraved chessboard is a beautiful art creation. Special messages alongside names and romantic quotations can be engraved onto chess boards constructed from wood or marble materials of premium quality.
Engraved chess boards are an original gift option that honors the love between two people. Those looking for a gift will find this object worthy because it serves as both an attractive home addition and a conversation point.
This product works well as either a special husband's Valentine's present or an exceptional wife gift option. This item serves couples as a suitable choice when playing romantic board games or spending a great time on their evening dates.
Your Valentine’s Day celebrations will become more exciting with the purchase of an interesting novelty chess set. Our novelty chess sets feature exclusive eclectic designs encompassing unconventional motifs. Choosing a novelty chess set as a Valentine's gift will surely infuse a fresh, imaginative appeal into your love connection.
People who enjoy romantic board games, as well as those who want fresher dates, should consider purchasing a novelty chess set because it provides both uniqueness and playfulness.
This item makes an outstanding choice when searching for a creative Valentine’s present or a thoughtful gift on Valentine’s Day. The unique chess assembly provides an excellent solution for couples who both like enjoying extraordinarily designed chess pieces while playing the game of chess.
A luxury chess set represents an excellent choice for Valentine's gift as it features the elements of premiums. Luxury Chess sets represent artwork that delivers elegance together with sophistication while going beyond simple recreational status.
The luxury chess set presents itself as a stylish present that appeals to chess players. The luxurious item is considered to be worth every penny, and it’ll be very much evident from the surprise look on their face after receiving it as a gift.
Luxury chess sets serve well as both a romantic token for your husband and a special present for your boyfriend. The item makes a perfect purchase for people who cherish luxury chess sets featuring unique designs and praise craftsmanship excellence.
Any recipient of this special present will definitely love this Valentine's gift. The customized pieces enable you to have your initials or a significant date engraved onto them, which creates a special one-of-a-kind present.
The combination of thoughtful creativity through chess pieces makes them excellent for celebrating relationships. The gift serves as a practical item while keeping deep emotional value.
The chess set would make an excellent choice when searching for a valentine gift either for your boyfriend or your husband. Those who adore customized chess pieces together with board games will find this item a perfect fit.
This Valentine's Day, choose a gift which showcases your partner's essence along with the remarkable bond you share. Your loved one will feel special upon receiving any of these personal touches included among the offerings, such as personalized chess sets or custom chess pieces.
Discover more distinctive Valentine’s Day presents and exclusive creative Valentine gifts on our official website, Indianchesscompany.com.
Learn how to master En Passant in chess, the secret move that adds strategy and fairness. Understand its conditions, timing, and importance for every player.
Discover the history of Chess, from its origins in ancient India as Chaturanga to its evolution into the popular game we know and love today.
Learn chess basics with our complete guide to chess pieces, their moves, castling rules, and strategies to enhance your game. Perfect for beginners!
