endplays

Endplays are a tactical motif in chess, typically arising in the endgame when only a few pieces remain. An endplay occurs when a sequence of forcing moves results in the opponent's king or a key defender being driven to a particularly vulnerable square or situation, often enabling a decisive material gain or a checkmate threat. The hallmark is that the defender has limited or no good replies, and even a seemingly counterintuitive move can lead to material loss due to the forced continuation.

Common endplay themes include decoys (luring a piece or the king onto a specific square), deflections (pulling a defender away from a crucial square), interference (blocking a defender’s line of action), and overloading or zugzwang (the defender must move in a way that worsens their position). Endplays are especially prevalent in rook endings, but they can occur with any combination of pieces.

Execution requires precise calculation and an understanding of the remaining piece activity, king safety, and pawn structure. A successful endplay converts a positional or material edge into a forced conclusion, such as winning a rook, obtaining a decisive pawn promotion, or delivering mate.

Not all endgames feature endplays; some require quiet technique to convert advantages without tactical blows. Endplays illustrate how the activity and coordination of the remaining pieces can trump material balance in the late stage of a game.