The Immortal Game: Attack, Sacrifice and Checkmate
How Adolf Anderssen turned development and tempo into one of chess history's most celebrated attacks.
Why the game matters
Played in London in 1851, the Immortal Game is remembered for its fearless attacking ideas. Anderssen gave up major material because his active pieces and the exposed enemy king mattered more than the material count.
The practical lesson
A sacrifice is sound only when it creates a forcing continuation. Look first at checks, then captures and direct threats. The game also shows why rapid development and king safety are worth more than collecting pawns in the opening.