Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
The rook is a very powerful piece with as large a range as the bishop, but it is even stronger because of the possibility to access to any square of any color. The rook moves horizontally or vertically through any number of unoccupied squares. Its relative value is equal to five pawns, and a pair of Rooks are more or less equal to the queen. Any final preference always depends to the position. If the queen is supported with minor pieces and leads the attack, then threats may be very dangerous and we should prefer the queen. In simple positions with good coordination between the rooks, they are stronger.
Playing the Rook
The skills of the rook function best on the “open files” – files that have no pawns. Controlling such files allows us to place rooks on our back rank and at the same time have access to key horizontals deep in the opponent’s position. That’s why we have to fight quickly for control of an open file and, if necessary, even double the cooks on it to strengthen the control. Generally the rook develops maximum activity when it enters the second rank of the opponent’s position, as there are a lot pawns to attack.
Rook Lifts! Rook’s Special Trick
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
There are many situations when we can’t find open files for our rooks. What do we do then? In these cases we can search for “semi-open files,” – files where the opponent’s pawns and rook still can apply pressure somehow. But there is one more very important possibility that we have to keep in mind: “Rook lifts!” This refers to raising the rook to our 3rd rank, (although 4th or 5th could also work, depending on the position,) in front of our pawns. This position allows the rook to maneuver horizontally from one flank to another and attack the opponent’s position, as it is not restricted by its own pawns. In this example we see how effective the “Rook lift” is. Here it lets Black develop an attack on the king’s side. 1… Ra6!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.  Sign up for my free e-mail chess course "The 10 Grandmaster Secrets to Dominate Chess" to learn the secrets Grandmasters use to gain an edge over their opponent. You'll learn the most effective way Grandmasters like me attack, make threats, exploit loose pieces, and more incredible tips and shortcuts to dominate chess! The e-mail course is always 100% free. I promise you won't be disappointed.- GM Damian Lemos SEND ME THE SECRETS! |
