LaviChess

Perpetual check: the rescue when all else is lost

Perpetual check is when one side can give check for as long as it likes, and the king can't hide. The game is drawn. For the player who is behind, it is often the last way out.

Check, check, check

Sometimes you are so far behind that the game looks lost. But if your opponent's king stands in the open, you may be able to check it again and again, without it ever finding shelter. Then neither of you gets anywhere, and the game is drawn. That is called perpetual check.

It is the weaker side's best friend. However much material your opponent has, it makes no difference if the king is never left in peace.

Save the game

Black is a rook up and threatens mate. White's only chance is the queen, and Black's king has only pawns around it.

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White to move. Black is a rook up and threatens mate. Save the draw.

How it becomes a draw

There is no rule of its own for perpetual check. The game is drawn by threefold repetition: when the same position occurs for the third time, with the same player to move, that player may claim a draw. In practice the players usually agree long before.

Show the solution, and how the position repeats
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The starting position. Press ▶ or use the arrow keys.

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Open on the analysis board

How to find perpetual check

  • Look for two checks. Often two squares that the queen can switch between are enough.
  • Count the king's squares. If the king has only one or two squares, and you can give check on all of them, you have found it.
  • Look at your opponent's pieces. Can something block? Then it doesn't hold.

For the player in the lead

The player with the advantage has to watch out. Give your king shelter in time, with pawns in front of it and a piece that can block when the checks come. And if you have much more material, it is often wise to trade queens, because a lone queen is the piece that most often finds a perpetual check.

Frequently asked questions

What is perpetual check?

When one player can give check after check, and the opponent's king can't get away. Neither of them gets anywhere, and the game ends in a draw.

Is there a rule about perpetual check?

No, not a rule of its own. The game is drawn by threefold repetition, when the same position has occurred three times, or because the players agree. Usually they agree long before.

How do you avoid perpetual check?

Give your king shelter in time: pawns in front of it and a piece of your own that can block. If you are well ahead, it is often worth trading queens.

Updated October 31, 2026