LaviChess

Lesson 1: The king steps up

When the queens are gone, the king changes roles, from the one who hides to the one who decides. Here you see it in two positions, and you play one of them yourself against the computer.

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Lavi
In the middlegame the king hides behind its pawns. When the queens are gone, it steps forward, and then it's one of the strongest pieces on the board.

White to move and win. Find the only winning move.

What you'll learn

  • The king goes in front of the pawn, not behind it
  • The pawn waits until the king has cleared the way
  • A diagonal king move can do two jobs at once
  • How to win with king and pawn against king, even against the computer

Lesson 1 of 12 in Endgames with Lavi · about 8 minutes · 5 steps · free for everyone. Your progress is kept in this browser, and with your profile if you have one.

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Updated November 6, 2026