Masters of the Chessboard – 21st Century Edition by Richard Réti

“Master of the Chessboard” is considered one of the classics in chess literature, offering a deep insight into chess strategy and the game’s evolution. This book is not just about playing chess; it’s a guide to thinking like a master. Whether you want to refine your skills or gain a deeper understanding of chess strategy, this book is an invaluable resource to enhance your game.

• While it includes some advice for beginners, the book dives deeper into strategic concepts. Overall, Masters of the Chessboard is a valuable resource for intermediate players looking to improve their strategic understanding of chess
• Gain a better understanding of the evolution of chess theory from Master to Master
• Enjoy a fascinating account of the lives of the Masters; William Steinitz, Emanual Lasker, Jose Raul Capablanca and Alexander Alekhine
• Learn how ideas about the game of chess evolved over time from classical to hypermodern approaches
• Develop your strategic thinking over tactical calculations to help you understand the underlying principles of chess
• Excellent annotated games demonstrating key strategies in action
• Philosophical insights will help you understand chess on a deeper level

Reader’s Reviews:

This book has somewhat of an underground reputation as a fantastic read. Yet, it's rarely mentioned by the so-called "authorities" in the chess world. All I can say is that it’s one of the most insightful, engaging, and well-written chess books I’ve ever seen. 

It offers excellent overviews of different players' styles, provides concise yet informative explanations of various opening ideas, and features WONDERFUL annotations, primarily focused on clear, explanatory prose. I highly recommend it! Réti, indeed, was a master! - L.White.

I own over 250 chess books, and if I could only keep 25, this would definitely be one of them. Réti’s goal was to create a textbook through a curated selection of games. By studying this book, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how chess theory evolved from one master to the next. 

I also enjoy an intriguing account of the key figures from each era. The book focuses on ideas and how new concepts challenge and eventually replace older ones. Réti, having witnessed much of chess’s evolution firsthand, was uniquely qualified to explain the masters' ideas throughout different periods - VAllen.

About the Author:

Richard Réti (1889–1929) was a highly influential chess player, theorist, and writer widely regarded as one of the leading figures of the hypermodern chess school. Born in what is now Slovakia, Réti was initially known as a classical-style player but later became a champion of hypermodern ideas, which challenged the traditional approaches to opening play and strategy that dominated chess in the early 20th century.

One of Réti’s most famous victories was against World Champion José Raúl Capablanca at the 1924 New York tournament, which ended Capablanca’s 8-year unbeaten streak. Réti’s win, with a combination of strategic play and deep tactics, solidified his reputation as a world-class player. Réti also participated in many of the strongest tournaments of his time, often finishing at or near the top. Réti was a prolific writer and thinker in chess. His work, Modern Ideas in Chess (1923) and Master of the Chessboard (1930) have become classic texts.

Other Details:

Paperback
216 Pages
Dimensions: 15.24cm × 1.27cm × 22.86cm
ISBN-13: 9781949859928