CHESSBOOK REVIEWS

Latest book reviews of 1 January 2025

Wilhelminalaan 33 

7261 BP RUURLO 

The Netherlands.
           John Elburg

                                                                                                                   Chess DVD's

ChessBase Magazine issue 222 Extra
December  2025
ChessBase
 http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
ISSN 1432-8992
Euro 14,90
System requirements:
Minimum: Pentium III 1 GHz, 1 GB RAM, Windows Vista, XP (Service Pack 3), DirectX9 graphic card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 12/Fritz 13 or included Reader and internet connection for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10, DirectX10 graphic card (or compatible) with 512 MB RAM or better, 10


The new ChessBase magazine works as Download,and it comes with Postal Delivery and you will receive a (booklet+key)so it will be no longer delivered on DVD.
The update service comes with 39456 entries plus there are two extra databases with extra games as The Brilliancy between Filip Haring and David Howell.Plus Chess Olympia special with 23 well analysed games.
A fine example of this all is: Van Foreest,Jorden (2696) - Moroni,Luca Jr (2558) [B12]
45th FIDE Olympiad 2024 Budapest (3.22), 13.09.2024
[Van Foreest,Jorden]
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nf3 e6 5.Be2 Nd7 6.0-0 a5 In recent years, this has become a topical line in the Caro-Kann Defense. The idea is to quickly grab space on the queenside before White does. In the era of neural  networks, such plans no longer raise eyebrows. In den letzten Jahren ist dies eine aktuelle Variante der Caro-Kann-Verteidigung geworden. Die Idee ist, schnell Raum am Damenflügel zu erobern, bevor Weiß es tut. In der Ära der neuronalen Netze erregen solche Pläne kein Aufsehen mehr. 7.Ne1 Having some experience with this variation from the Black side, I knew this was an interesting and unexplored direction. White aims to quickly expand on the kingside with g4 and  f4. After the game, my opponent pointed out that, coincidentally, the exact  same move was played in the women's section of the Olympiad during the China-Italy match on the same day. Da ich einige Erfahrung mit dieser Variante auf der schwarzen Seite hatte, wusste ich, dass dies eine interessante und unerforschte Richtung war. WeiÃY versucht, am KÃnigsflügel mit g4 und f4 schnell zu expandieren. Nach der Partie wies mein Gegner darauf hin, dass zufälligerweise genau derselbe Zug am selben Tag in der Frauensektion der Olympiade beim Match China-Italien gespielt wurde. 7...Ne7 [If Wenn 7...a4 , then , dann wäre 8.g4 would likely  have been my response. wäre wahrscheinlich meine Antwort gewesen.] After the text, I decided on a quieter approach, though  8.g4 was certainly worth considering. Nach dem Text entschied ich mich für einen ruhigeren Ansatz, obwohl 8.g4 sicherlich eine Überlegung wert war. 8.c3 a4 9.Na3 Bg6 Only here was I out of my preparation. This move is probably not best, as the bishop will come under attack soon. Moreover, Black may find themselves in a passive position  with limited counterplay. Erst hier war ich aus meiner Vorbereitung heraus. Dieser Zug ist wahrscheinlich nicht der beste, da der Läufer bald angegriffen werden wird. AuÃYerdem kÃnnte sich Schwarz in einer passiven Stellung mit begrenztem Gegenspiel wiederfinden. [It might have been better to pursue direct  complications with Es wäre vielleicht besser gewesen, direkte Komplikationen anzustreben mit 9...f6 ] 10.Nd3 Nf5 11.Nc2 I spent some time here,  uncertain whether 11.Nf4 was playable immediately. I already had the plan that I later executed in the game in mind. Eventually, I chose the text move, as I  wasn't entirely sure about the evaluation in the event of ...Bxa3. True,  White gains the bishop pair and dominance over the dark squares, but Black is extremely solid, making it difficult to break through. Ich verbrauchte hier einige Zeit, unsicher, ob 11.Sf4 sofort spielbar war. Ich hatte bereits den Plan im Kopf, den ich später in der Partie ausführte. SchlieÃYlich wählte ich den Textzug, da ich mir über die Bewertung im Falle von ...Lxa3 nicht ganz sicher war. WeiÃY gewinnt zwar das Läuferpaar und die Dominanz über die dunklen Felder, aber Schwarz steht extrem solide, so dass es schwierig ist, durchzubrechen. [11.Nf4 Bxa3] 11...Be7 12.Nf4 b5? A serious mistake. My opponent tries to clamp down on the queenside, but this approach is misguided. Issues on the kingside will soon become significant, and the queenside isn't truly locked up, as will be seen later. Ein schwerer Fehler. Mein Gegner versucht, den Damenflügel zu klammern, aber das ist ein falscher Ansatz. Die Probleme am KÃnigsflügel werden bald bedeutsam werden, und der Damenflügel ist nicht wirklich verschlossen, wie wir später sehen werden. [The correct approach was Der richtige Ansatz war 12...c5 , the quintessential Caro-Kann break. Perhaps my opponent  was worried about giving up the b5-square, but its advantages outweigh the  drawbacks. , der Caro-Kann-Hebel schlechthin. Vielleicht war mein Gegner besorgt, das Feld b5 aufzugeben, aber die Vorteile überwiegen die Nachteile.] 13.g3! I was pleased to spot this move, with the idea of  following up with h4-h5 to harass the bishop on g6. It's a slow but effective  plan, as Black lacks satisfactory countermeasures. Ich war erfreut, diesen Zug zu entdecken, mit der Idee, mit h4-h5 den Läufer auf g6 zu bedrängen. Es ist ein langsamer, aber effektiver Plan, da Schwarz keine zufriedenstellenden Gegenmaßnahmen hat. 13...Qb6? Not helping  matters. Das hilft der Sache nicht. [13...Bg5 was likely the lesser evil. White has the option of  which bishop to capture. Both captures maintain a solid advantage, but Black  isn't out of the game yet. war wahrscheinlich das geringere Ãobel. WeiÃY hat die Wahl, welchen Läufer er schlägt. Beides bewahrt einen soliden Vorteil, aber Schwarz ist noch nicht aus dem Spiel. 14.h4 Bxf4 15.Bxf4] 14.h4! Now, due to the  threat of h4-h5, Black is not only forced to part with the strong light-squared bishop, but even worse, the pawn structure suffers irreparable damage. Nun ist Schwarz durch die Drohung h4-h5 nicht nur gezwungen, sich von dem starken weiÃYfeldrigen Läufer zu trennen, sondern, was noch schlimmer ist, die Bauernstruktur erleidet irreparablen Schaden. 14...h6?! [14...h5 would have offered better chances of survival, as it  at least prevents what happens in the game. If White captures the pawn, Black  has some counterplay chances on the kingside. hätte bessere Ãoberlebenschancen geboten, da es zumindest das verhindert, was in der Partie passiert. Wenn WeiÃY den Bauern schlägt, hat Schwarz einige Gegenspielchancen am KÃnigsflügel.] 15.Nxg6 fxg6 16.h5! At this point, the game is essentially decided. The g4-square becomes an  outpost for White's pieces, especially the bishop. The knight on f5 is Black's only active piece, but it will soon be forced away, dooming the e6-pawn. Overall, White's strategic advantages are overwhelming. An diesem Punkt ist die Partie im Wesentlichen entschieden. Das Feld g4 wird zu einem Vorposten für die weiÃYen Figuren, insbesondere für den Läufer. Der Springer auf f5 ist die einzige aktive Figur von Schwarz, aber er wird bald weggedrängt werden, wodurch der e6-Bauer verloren geht. Insgesamt sind die strategischen Vorteile von WeiÃY überwältigend. 16...g5 17.Ne3 0-0-0 Seeking safety on the queenside, Sucht nach Sicherheit am Damenflügel, [as denn 17...0-0 18.Bg4 would also be unpleasant. wäre auch unangenehm.;
Perhaps the best chance still lay in Vielleicht lag die beste Chance noch in 17...c5 , looking for counterplay. auf der Suche nach Gegenspiel.] 18.Bg4 Rdf8 19.Qd3 g6!? A creative defense. Eine kreative Verteidigung. [In the case of Im Fall von 19...Nxe3 20.Bxe3 , the e6-pawn would be doomed with no compensation. wäre der e6-Bauer ohne Kompensation dem Untergang geweiht.] 20.b3 [The natural Das natürliche 20.hxg6 could be met by kÃnnte beantwortet werden mit 20...Ng7 , giving Black a glimmer of hope with .  ..h6-h5. , Schwarz mit ...h6-h5 einen Hoffnungsschimmer gibt.] However, White is not forced to capture immediately, as Black has no real way to escape their unfavorable setup. Thus, I decided to break open the  queenside, adding pressure on the black king. WeiÃY ist jedoch nicht gezwungen, sofort zu schlagen, da Schwarz keine wirkliche MÃglichkeit hat, dem ungünstigen Aufbau zu entkommen. Daher beschloss ich, den Damenflügel aufzubrechen und den schwarzen KÃnig unter Druck zu setzen. 20...a3 Trying to keep the position  closed, but White has other breaks available. Versucht, die Stellung geschlossen zu halten, aber WeiÃY hat noch andere MÃglichkeiten. 21.Bd2 Kb8 22.Rac1 Rhg8 With everything in place, I decided it was time for concrete play. Da alles an seinem Platz war, beschloss ich, dass es Zeit für ein konkretes Spiel war. 23.hxg6 Ng7 24.c4 h5 25.cxd5?! This might have been unnecessary. I thought it was  the cleanest way to decide the game, Das war vielleicht unnÃtig. Ich dachte, es wäre die sauberste Art, die Partie zu entscheiden, [but aber 25.Be2 would have kept the piece and  maintained White's strong position. hätte die Figur behalten und die starke Stellung von WeiÃY aufrechterhalten.] 25...hxg4 26.dxc6?! This had been my plan after 25.cxd5, but I noticed some resources for Black, which made me uneasy for a few moments. Dies war mein Plan nach 25.cxd5, aber ich bemerkte einige Ressourcen für Schwarz, was mich für einige Momente verunsicherte. [26.Rxc6! Qb7 27.Rfc1 would have been decisive. Ba5 is coming, and White's attack is unstoppable. wäre entscheidend gewesen. La5 kommt, und der Angriff von WeiÃY ist nicht mehr aufzuhalten.] 26...Rh8?! Luckily, my  opponent played quickly, allowing me to regain control of the position. Glücklicherweise spielte mein Gegner schnell, so dass ich die Kontrolle über die Stellung zurückgewinnen konnte. [26...Nc5! would have created unnecessary complications. With some precise play, White is still winning. hätte zu unnötigen Komplikationen geführt. Mit etwas präzisem Spiel gewinnt Weiß trotzdem. 27.c7+! This check disrupts Black's coordination. Dieses Schach stört die Koordination von Schwarz. (27.dxc5 Qxc6 Though White is two pawns up, the white king is now under attack with ...Rh8 coming, making the situation unclear. Obwohl WeiÃY zwei Bauern mehr hat, wird der weiÃYe KÃnig nun mit ...Th8 angegriffen, was die Situation unklar macht.) 27...Qxc7 28.Rxc5! Bxc5 29.Rc1 A few accurate moves confirm White's winning attack. Ein paar präzise Züge bestätigen WeiÃY' siegreichen Angriff.] 27.Qe4! The cleanest path to victory. By covering the h1-a8 diagonal, Black is left without any ideas, and the knight on d7 is trapped. The game is over. Der sauberste Weg zum Sieg. Durch die Deckung der Diagonale h1-a8 bleibt Schwarz ohne jegliche Ideen, und der Springer auf d7 ist gefangen. Die Partie ist vorbei. 27...Nf5 28.Nxf5 exf5 29.Qd5 1-0
And not to forget included are two smashing video files from Felix Blohberger Reti and Nico Zwirs covers the Sicilian Najdorf variation.
Conclusion: This is must have material!

1.Nf3: A Reti-Grandmaster course for strategic understanding and flexibility Vol.1 - Fianchetto Systems
by  Felix Blohberger
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 34.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

1.Nf3: A Reti-Grandmaster course for strategic understanding and flexibility Vol.2 - Classical Systems
by  Felix Blohberger
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 34.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

The young Grandmaster Felix Blohberger from Austria who became grandmaster at the age of 19  provides the user with a complete opening repertoire for White,based on the move 1.Nf3
The great Bobby Fisher started once with the same idea,but our grandmaster comes with more!
As we can see in the contents:
Introduction
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4
2...Nc6 3.Nc3 e5/g6
2...Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.g3 g6 5.d4
2...Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.g3 d5
Move orders and Sidelines
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Position 3
Position 4
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Bg4
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Bg4
3.Bg2 c6/Nd7
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c6 3.Bg2 Bf5
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c6 3.Bg2 Bf5
4.0-0 e6/Nd7
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Classical Variation - ...d5, ...Nf6, ...e6, ...Be7
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3
6...c5
6...d4
6...b6
Move orders
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Position 3
Position 4
Black setups with ...d5 and ...c5
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c5 3.Bg2
3...Nf6/Nc6/f6/g6
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Dubov-Tarrasch System
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4 Nc6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.g3 e6 5.Bg2 d5 6.cxd5 exd5 7.d4 cxd4 8.Nxd4 Bc5
9.Nxc6/Nb3
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Classical Tarrasch System
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3 c5 7.cxd5 exd5 8.d4 Nc6
9.Bb2
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Triangle System
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3 c6
7.Bb2
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nd7
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nd7 3.Bg2 e5 4.0-0
4...Ngf6/c6/Bd6/e4
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nc6
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nc6 3.d4
3...Bf5/Bg4
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 b6
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 b6 3.Bg2 Bb7 4.c4
4...dxc4 5.Na3 e6/e5/Nf6
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Bonus
Analysis
Model Games
Instead of forcing lines in your mind,our teachter prefers positional understanding and flexible structures, like the Réti or the English Opening.
In this Volume he discusses the Classical Systems where the pawns are placed in the centre: 1… c5, 1…d5, Classical Variation (d5, Nf6, e6, Be7, 0-0), Tarrsch Defence & Triangle System.
Extensive training content and interactive exercises in ChessBase Books:
Replay critical positions, solve exercises & find the key moves, test your knowledge with the opening trainer.
IN section two I found:
Introduction
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4
2...Nc6 3.Nc3 e5/g6
2...Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.g3 g6 5.d4
2...Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.g3 d5
Move orders and Sidelines
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Position 3
Position 4
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Bg4
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Bg4
3.Bg2 c6/Nd7
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c6 3.Bg2 Bf5
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c6 3.Bg2 Bf5
4.0-0 e6/Nd7
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Classical Variation - ...d5, ...Nf6, ...e6, ...Be7
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3
6...c5
6...d4
6...b6
Move orders
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Position 3
Position 4
Black setups with ...d5 and ...c5
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 c5 3.Bg2
3...Nf6/Nc6/f6/g6
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position 1
Position 2
Dubov-Tarrasch System
1.Nf3 c5 2.c4 Nc6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.g3 e6 5.Bg2 d5 6.cxd5 exd5 7.d4 cxd4 8.Nxd4 Bc5
9.Nxc6/Nb3
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Classical Tarrasch System
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3 c5 7.cxd5 exd5 8.d4 Nc6
9.Bb2
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
Triangle System
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 e6 4.0-0 Be7 5.c4 0-0 6.b3 c6
7.Bb2
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nd7
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nd7 3.Bg2 e5 4.0-0
4...Ngf6/c6/Bd6/e4
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nc6
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 Nc6 3.d4
3...Bf5/Bg4
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Practice Positions
Position
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 b6
1.Nf3 d5 2.g3 b6 3.Bg2 Bb7 4.c4
4...dxc4 5.Na3 e6/e5/Nf6
Find key moves
Database
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Bonus
Analysis
Model Games and the video running of both DVD's is around eight hours!
Conclusion: Very interesting!

Understanding Middlegame Strategies Vol.10 - Caro-Kann Advance Variation
by  Ivan Sokolov
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 49.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

The great Ivan Sokolov covers in an impressive over 7 hours and 19 minutes the strategies and secrets as we can see in  the following index:
Intro
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nd2 & Be3
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nd2 & Be3
4.Nd2 e6 5.Nb3 c5 6.dxc5 Bxc5 7.Nxc5 Qa5+ 8.c3 Qxc5: Giri vs Salem
4.Be3 e6 5.Nd2 Nd7 6.Ngf3 Bg6 7.Be2 Ne7 8.Nh4 c5: Carlsen vs Wang Hao
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nf3
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nf3
4...e6 5.Be2 Bb4+ 6.Nbd2/c3: Sjugirov vs Carlsen
4...e6 5.a3 Ne7 6.Nbd2 Nd7 7.Nh4 c5: Short vs Karpov
4... e6 5.Be2 c5 6.Be3 Nd7 7.0-0 Ne7 8.c4: Shirov vs Eljanov
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 Ne7 7.Nf4 c5: Shirov vs Bareev
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nc3
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nc3
4...Qb6 5.Nf3 e6 6.Be2 Nd7 7.0-0 Ne7: Shirov vs Hracek
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 Be7: Adhiban vs Idani
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 Ne7 7.Nf4 c5 8.dxc5 Nec6 9.h4: Shirov vs Bareev
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Neg2 Ne7 7.Nf4 c5 8.dxc5 Nd7 9.h4: Kasparov vs Karpov
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 Ne7 7.f4: Anand vs Karpov
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 c5 7.Be3: Kasparov vs Navara
4...e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2 c5 7.h4: Shirov vs Topalov
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.h4 & c4
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5 4.h4 & c4
4.h4 h6 5.g4 Bd7 6.Nd2 c5: Kramnik vs Leko
4.h4 h5 5.Bd3 Bxd3 6.Qxd3 Qa5+: Shirov vs Bareev
4.h4 h5 5.c4 e6 6.Nc3 dxc4 7.Bxc4 Nd7: Shirov vs Lobron
4.c4 e6 5.Nc3 Bb4 6.cxd5 Qxd5 7.Nge2 Qd8: Carlsen vs Fedoseev
Practice Positions
4.Nf3 (black bishop on c7) - White to move
4.Nf3 (black bishop on c7) - Black to move
4.Nc3 (White has initiative but no c-pawn) - White to move
4.Nc3 (White has initiative but no c-pawn) - Black to move
4.h4 (White took space, Black's bishop retreated to d7) - White to move
4.h4 (White took space, Black's bishop retreated to d7) - Black to move
4.Nf3 (unusual doubled f-pawns) - Black to move
4.Nf3 (unusual doubled f-pawns) - White to move
4.Nf3 (typical central dynamics) - Black to move
4.Nf3 (typical central dynamics) - White to move
4.h4 (Seemingly dominant Knight) - White to move
4.h4 (Seemingly dominant Knight) - Black to move
Exercises
Exercises
Bonus
Extensive Analysis
More Games
But there is more: the course presents key games, important strategic ideas, and opening knowledge to equip you with the best.
Key Highlights:
Aggressive and Tactical Lines: Learn how White can create dynamic, aggressive opportunities to put early pressure on Black. Tactical awareness is crucial, and this course emphasises how to spot and capitalise on key moments.
Computer-Assisted Preparation: With modern computer analysis, you’ll explore cutting-edge ideas and fine-tuned moves that will give you a competitive edge. One tempo can be enough, so understanding how to exploit them can be the difference between winning and losing.
Dynamic Play & Attack: Designed for players who thrive in attacking positions. Dynamic players, like Gukesh and Abdusattorov, will gain the most from the strategies and insights presented, allowing them to sharpen their aggressive play and capitalise on tactical opportunities.
Whether you're a dynamic player looking to master aggressive strategies or a Caro-Kann player wanting to know what you're up against, this course will provide you with the insights needed to succeed. Start learning now and take your Caro-Kann understanding to the next level!

Understanding Middlegame Strategies Vol.11 - King's Indian Structures
by  Ivan Sokolov
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 39.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10


Grandmaster Sokolov digs in volume 11 completely into the good old King’s Indian as the following index shows us:
Introduction
5.Nf3 0-0 6.Be2 e5 - Black takes on d4
Structures with Black taking on d4
7.0-0 Na6 8.Be3 c6 9.h3 exd4 Nxd4 Re8: Keymer vs Rapport
7.0-0 Na6 8.Re1 Bg4 9.Be3 Bxf3 10.Bxf3 exd4 11.Bxd4 c6: Rasmussen vs Nisipeanu
7.0-0 Nbd7 8.Qc2 c6 9.Rd1 Qe7 10.Rb1 exd4 11.Nxd4 Re8: Sokolov vs Kozul
7.Be3 Na6 8.0-0 Ng4 9.Bg5 Qe8 10.h3 h6 11.Bc1 exd4 12.Nxd4 Nf6: Sokolov vs Gelfand
5.Nf3/Be2/h3 - Pawn breaks
Pawn breaks
5.Nf3 0-0 6.Be2 e5: Typical central break for White - Sebenik vs Nisipeanu
5.Nf3 0-0 6.Be2 e5 7.d5: Central breaks & tactics - Kramnik vs Kasparov
5.Be2 0-0 6.Be3 e5 7.d5: White's kingside pawn attack: Sokolov vs Van Foreest
5.Be2 0-0 6.Be3 Na6: White's kingside attack - Iturrizaga vs Rapport
5.h3 0-0 6.Be3 Nc6 7.d5: Taking space gone wrong - Praggnanandhaa vs Rapport
5.h3 e5 6.d5 a5 7.Be3 Na6: Black's delays castling & the correct pawn break: Narayanan vs Gukesh
5.h3 Nbd7 6.Be3 e5 7.d5 Nc5: Black's delays castling & the correct pawn break - Royal vs Lagarde
5.h3/Bg5/f3/Bd3 - Different structures
Different structures
5.h3 0-0 6.Nf3 e5 7.d5 Nh5: Blocked centre & e4-dynamics - Sokolov vs Xie Jun
5.Bg5 0-0 6.Qd2 c6 7.Bd3 Nbd7: Changing the structure into a Sicilian type - Sokolov vs Vassallo Barroche
5.Nf3 0-0 6.Bg5 h6 7.Bh4 c5 8.e3 g5 9.Bg3 Nh5: Central squares - Sokolov vs Radjabov
5.f3 0-0 6.Bg5 c6 7.Qd2 a6: Instructive mutual mistakes - Sokolov vs Kozul
5.Bd3 0-0 6.Nge2 c5 7.d5 e6: Benoni Type Position - Sokolov vs Radjabov
Practice Positions
Black takes on d4 - White to move
Black takes on d4 - Black to move
Unusual structure - Black to move
Unusual structure - White to move
Pawn sacrifice idea - Black to move
Pawn sacrifice idea - White to move
Complex battle - White to move
Complex battle - Black to move
Makagonov type position - Black to move
Makagonov type position - White to move
Changing into a sicilian structure - White to move
Changing into a sicilian structure - Black to move
Exercises
Database
Bonus
Analysis
Model Games
Games by Ivan Sokolov
All in a video running time of: 5 hours 38 minutes
Key Elements Covered: Key variations for White, including 5.Nf3, 5.Bd3, 5.Be2, and 5.h3. Insightful analysis of both Black and White’s plans, providing a balanced understanding of the positions. The crucial difference between human decision-making and engine evaluations, emphasising how to practically apply this knowledge.
Conclusion: This is ChessBase on it’s best!

The Catalan, an opening repertoire for life Vol.1 - Open Catalan
by Jan Werle
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 49.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

The Dutch Grandmaster Jan van Werle digs with his impressive 9 hours and 30 minutes into the Open Catalan,as we can see in the following index:
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 d5 4.g3 - Introduction
Introduction
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 a6
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 a6
6.0-0 b5
6.0-0 b5 In-depth analysis
6.0-0 Nc6 7.e3 Rb8
7.e3 Bd7 8.Qe2 b5 9.b3 cxb3 10.axb3 Be7
7.e3 Bd7 8.Qe2 b5 9.b3 cxb3 10.axb3 Bd6
7.e3 Bd7 8.Qe2 Bd6
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 c5
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 c5
6.0-0 Nc6 7.dxc5 Qxd1 8.Rxd1 Bxc5 9.Nbd2 c3 10.bxc3 Bd7
6.0-0 Nc6 7.dxc5 Qxd1 8.Rxd1 Bxc5 9.Nbd2 c3 10.bxc3 0-0
10...0-0 11.Nb3 Be7 12.Nfd4 Bd7 In-depth analysis
10...0-0 11.Nb3 Be7 12.Nfd4 Nxd4 In-depth analysis
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 Bb4+
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 Bb4+
6.Bd2 a5
6.Bd2 a5 In-depth analysis
6.Bd2 c5
6.Bd2 c5 In-depth analysis
Model Game 6.Bd2 c5: Handler vs Baum
6.Bd2 Be7
Analysis & Model Games
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 Nc6
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 Nc6
6.Qa4 Nd7
6.Qa4 Bb4+ - Sidelines
7.Bd2 Nd5 8.Bxb4 Ndxb4 9.0-0 Rb8 10.Na3 0-0
7.Bd2 Nd5 8.Bxb4 Ndxb4 9.0-0 Rb8 10.Na3 0-0 In-depth analysis
Model Game: Bosiocic vs Sanikidze
7.Bd2 Nd5 8.Bxb4 Ndxb4 9.0-0 Rb8 10.Na3 a6
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 c6
4...dxc4 5.Bg2 c6
6.Ne5 c5/Bb4+
6.Ne5 b5
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...Be7 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0 dxc4 7.Qc2 - Sidelines
4...Be7 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0 dxc4 7.Qc2 - Sidelines
Sidelines
7...b5
7...b5 In-depth analysis
7...b6
7...b6 in-depth analysis
7...c6
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...Be7 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0 dxc4 7.Qc2 a6
4...Be7 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0 dxc4 7.Qc2 a6
8.a4 Nc6
8.a4 Nc6 in-depth analysis
8.a4 Nbd7 in-depth analysis
8.a4 c5
8.a4 c5 in-depth analysis
8.a4 b6
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 a5
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 a5 in-depth analysis
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 Nbd7
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 Nbd7 in-depth analysis
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 Bd5
8.a4 Bd7 9.Qxc4 Bc6 10.Bg5 Bd5 in-depth analysis
Model Game: Deac vs Grischuk
Model Game: Tkachiev vs Piket
Analysis & Model Games
This course goes beyond simple move memorisation. It’s packed with strategic insights and clear explanations of the key ideas and plans that guide the opening and transition into the middlegame. Whether Black chooses a solid setup, or an aggressive setup, you’ll be equipped with the tools to handle any response.

The Catalan, an opening repertoire for life Vol.2 - Closed Catalan
by Jan Werle
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 39.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

The Closed Catalan is covered in a small 7 hours! And the following lines are covered:
1.d4 Nf6 2.Nf3 e6 3.c4 d5 4.g3 - Introduction
Introduction
4...Bd6 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0
4...Bd6 5.Bg2 0-0 6.0-0
6...h6
6...Nc6
Model Game: Kramnik vs Bluebaum
6...c6
6...b6
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...Bb4+ 5.Bd2 - Sidelines
4...Bb4+ 5.Bd2 - Sidelines
5...c5
5...Qe7
5...Nc6 & 5...Qe7 6.Bg2 Nc6 & 5...a5 6.Bg2 0-0 7.Qc2 Nc6
5...a5
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4...Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Bxd2
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Bxd2 6.Nbxd2
6...0-0
6...c6
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Bd6
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Bd6
6.Nc3 c6 7.Qc2 Nbd7 8.e4
6.Nc3 Nc6 7.Bg5
6.Nc3 0-0 7.Bg5 c6
Model Game: Ding vs Topalov
6.Nc3 0-0 7.Bg5 Be7
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4..Bb4+ 5. Bd2 Be7 - Sidelines
4..Bb4+ 5. Bd2 Be7 - Sidelines
6.Bg2 0-0 7.0-0 Nbd7 8.Qc2 Ne4
6.Bg2 0-0 7.0-0 Nbd7 8.Qc2 Sidelines
Analysis
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 0-0 8.Qc2 b6
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 0-0 8.Qc2 b6
8....b6 9.Ne5 Bb7
8...b6 9.Ne5 Nfd7
8...b6 9.Ne5 Ba6
Analysis
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 0-0 8.Qc2 Nbd7
4...Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 0-0 8.Qc2 Nbd7
8...Nbd7 9.Rc1 Ne4
8...Nbd7 9.Rc1 h6
8...Nbd7 9.Rc1 a5
8...Nbd7 9.Rc1 b6
Model Game: Donchenko vs Akobian
Model Game: Werle vs Naraynan
Analysis & Model Games
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 Nbd7
4..Bb4+ 5.Bd2 Be7 6.Bg2 c6 7.0-0 Nbd7
8.Qc2 Ne4 9.Ne1
8.Qc2 b6 9.a4 Ba6
8.Qc2 b6 9.a4 a5
Analysis
Repertoire Training
Opening Trainer
Exercises
Database
Outro
Summary
In-Depth Analysis: Each variation is thoroughly dissected to ensure you understand the underlying tactics and long-term plans for both sides.
Practical Exercises: Reinforce your knowledge with carefully designed exercises that challenge your understanding and help you master the key ideas in each position.
Model Games: Study expertly annotated games that demonstrate how top players approach the Closed Catalan, showcasing successful strategies from the opening all the way to victory in the endgame.
Annotated Files: Access detailed, annotated files to support your study and allow you to revisit key concepts at your own pace.
What sets this course apart is its holistic approach to learning the Closed Catalan. You won’t just be memorizing a sequence of moves; instead, you’ll be absorbing key strategic concepts that will give you a deeper, more intuitive feel for the positions that arise. You’ll know exactly where your pieces excel in different pawn structures and how to transition smoothly from the opening into a dominant middlegame—and, if necessary, into an endgame that keeps the pressure on your opponent.
Conclusion: Highly instructive explaned!

The Endgame Academy Vol.1: Checkmate & pawn endgames
by  Dr. Karsten Müller
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 39.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

It is a great pleasure for me to announce the following endgame Academy from Grandmaster  Dr. Karsten Müller who I consider as one of the greatest endgame expert of our time.
Specially his endgame explanations of endgame techniques, Karsten has the talent to explain essential endgame knowledge in a understandable way to the user. But first a view inside:
Chapter 1: Mating
Mating with the Queen
Mate fritz
Mating with the rook
Mate fritz
Mating with 2 bishops
Mate fritz
Mating with bishop and knight: W-maneuvre
Mating with bishop and knight: push the king to the edge
Mate fritz
Interactive Task 1.1
Mating with two knights
Chapter 2: King + Pawn vs. King
Rule of the square
Key squares
Opposition
Rook's pawn
Interactive Task 2.1
White to move and win!
It's your turn with the white pieces
Black to move and hold the draw
Black's turn. Try to win.
White to move
White's turn. How to win?
Win with the white pieces.
White to move
Can you defend the draw with black?
White to move and win.
Kapitel 3: King + Pawn vs. King + Pawn
Key Squares of Blocked Pawns
Bodycheck
Neighbouring Pawns
Queen vs. Pawn
Queen vs. b, d, e, g-Pawn
Queen vs. a, h-Pawn
Queen vs. c, f-Pawn with Kb2
Queen vs. c, f-Pawn with Kd2
Queen vs. Pawn + Extra Pawn
Pawn Race
Interactive Task 2.2
Kapitel 4: King + Pawn vs. King + 2 Pawns
Kapitel 4: King + Pawn vs. King + 2 Pawns
Protected Passed Knight's Pawn
Protected Passed Rook's Pawn
Backwards extra Rook's Pawn
Backwards Extra Pawn
no Passed pawn
Bähr's Rule
Triangle-Manoeuvre
f and h-Pawn vs. h-Pawn
White moves and wins.
Play out for White.
Interactive Task 2.3
Interactive Task 2.4
Training T04
Training T05
Kapitel 5: Pawn Endgames on one Wing
Pawn Endgames on one Wing
3 vs. 3 Blocked Pawns
3 vs. 3 Breaking the Structure
2 vs. 2 active King
3 vs. 3 Stalemate Cage
2 vs. 2 Counter Squares
Play for White.
Black to move. Try to draw
Can you win with white?
Interactive Task 2.5
Interactive Task 2.6
Training T06
Training T07
Training T08
Kapitel 6: Passed Pawns
Remote Passed Pawn
Pseudo Stalemate
Remote Passed Pawn vs. Active King
Creating Passed Pawns
Theoretical Pawn Endgame from the Exchange Spaniard
Passed Pawns and Reserve Moves
Pawn Breaks
Pawn Race
Do-not-touch-squares
White to move.
Interactive Task 2.7
Interactive Task 2.8
Training T09
Training T10
Training T11
Kapitel 7: Exchanging into the Endgame
Simplification from Rook Endgames
Calculating the Simplification
Simplification and Endgame Knowledge
Trading off into the Pawn Endgame
Knowledge and Calculation
Simplification from Rook Endgame
Training T12
This first volume of his endgame series can be accomplished without any previous knowledge, but will also be a challenge for club players. The 28 sub-chapters range from the basics of matesetting (with queen or with 2 bishops) to the extensive and in-depth fundamentals of pawn endgames (square rule, key squares, marginal pawns, passed pawns, blocked pawns, breakthroughs, endgames on one wing and much more).
Karsten Müller presents each topic in detail in the video. You can enhance your knowledge with interactive exercise modules, teaching examples and exercises. This comprehensive course is varied, entertaining, and guarantees you a solid endgame knowledge after successful study, which is the basis for victory at the board.
Video running time: 5 hours!
Conclusion:There is no better way to improve your endgame skills!

Modern Classics
by  Dorian Rogozenco
http://www.chessbase.com
E-Mail info@chessbase.com
2024
 Price Euro 39.90
Windows 7 or higher
Minimum: Dual Core, 2 GB RAM, DirectX11, graphics card with 256 MB RAM, DVD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 9, ChessBase 14/Fritz 16 or included Reader and internet access for program activation. Recommended: PC Intel i5 (Quadcore), 4 GB RAM, Windows 10, DirectX11, graphics card with 512 MB RAM or more, 100% DirectX10-compatible sound card, Windows Media Player 11, DVD-ROM drive and internet access for program activation.
MacOSX  only available as download! Minimum: MacOS "Yosemite" 10.10

The great Dorian Rogozenco comes with an smashing collection classic  games where each chapter contains the video presentation of the game in CB-Books format plus an introductory text with background information, also a diagram with a critical position, and a game-replayer - in which the user can view the variations from the video and analyse them with an engine. With this carefully and competently structured course, you can work on your understanding of chess, or simply enjoy the games of the great masters!
The index holds: Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Byrne-Fischer, 1956
Chapter 3: Kasparov-Topalov, 1999
Chapter 4: Karpov-Korchnoi, 1974
Chapter 5: Euwe-Alekhine, 1935
Chapter 6: Botvinnik-Keres, 1952
Chapter 7: Smyslov-Reshevsky, 1948
Chapter 8: Botvinnik-Tal, 1960
Chapter 9: Reshevsky-Petrosian, 1953
Chapter 10: Larsen-Spassky, 1970
Chapter 11: Fischer-Benko, 1963
Chapter 12: Karpov-Unzicker, 1974
Chapter 13: Kasparov-Shirov, 1994
Chapter 14: Taimanov-Najdorf, 1953
Chapter 15: Larsen-Petrosian, 1966
Chapter 16: Spassky-Fischer, 1972
Chapter 17: Nezhmetdinov-Chernikov, 1962
Chapter 18: Polugaevsky-Tal, 1969
Chapter 19: Geller-Fischer, 1962
Chapter 20: Karpov-Kasparov, 1985
Chapter 21: Tal-Smyslov, 1959
Chapter 22: Karpov-Spassky, 1979
Chapter 23: Fischer-Petrosian, 1971
Chapter 24: Kasparov-Nikolic, 1992
Chapter 25: Tal-Hecht, 1962
Chapter 26: Fischer-Larsen, 1958
Chapter 27: Short-Timman, 1991
Chapter 28: Kasparov-Anand, 1995
Chapter 29: Karpov-Jussupow, 1983
Chapter 30: Petrosian-Spassky, 1966
Chapter 31: Topalov-Kasparov, 1996
Chapter 32: Fischer-Spassky, 1972
Chapter 33: Anand-Karpov, 1996
Chapter 34: Karpov-Kasparov, 1993
Chapter 35: Petrosian's exchange sacrifices
It presents 33 famous games from modern chess history - from 1935 to 1999, played by world champions and top grandmasters. In addition, the course includes a video about a remarkable legacy of the 9th World Champion Tigran Petrosian - the positional quality sacrifice.
Conclusion:Very instructive!