What is a Combination?
A combination is the "magic" of chess. It is a forced sequence of moves, often involving a sacrifice, that leaves the opponent helpless. Unlike simple tactics, combinations are planned series of events leading to a specific goal, such as checkmate or material gain. This guide explains how to construct and spot these game-winning sequences.
The Perfect Example: The Opera Game
In 1858, Paul Morphy played a game at the Paris Opera House that defines the concept of a combination perfectly.
1. The Sacrifice (The Spark)
Morphy (White) wants to checkmate the Black King. But the Black Knight on d7 is blocking the way. Does Morphy retreat? No. He initiates a combination.
Fig 1: White to play. Morphy plays Qb8+!! sacrificing the Queen!
- The Move: White forces the Knight to move by playing Qb8+.
- The Force: Black must capture the Queen (Nxb8) because it is check.
2. The Execution (The Goal)
Why did Morphy give up his Queen? Because he saw the future. By forcing the Knight to b8, the d-file was cleared for his Rook.
Fig 2: The finish. Rd8#. A classic combination complete.
This is the essence of a combination: Sacrifice → Force → Checkmate.