Byrne vs Fischer (1956): The Game of the Century
A 13-year-old Bobby Fischer (Black) produced one of the most famous attacking games ever played. Use the board to jump to the key moments — then replay the full game below on our in-page board.
Interactive key positions
Tap a position to load it on the board. If you want to test yourself, you can play the same position vs our computer — without leaving this page.
Full game replay (move-by-move)
Tip: click/tap inside the replay board first, then use ← and → to step moves.
Full PGN (copy & paste)
Many people arrive here looking for “PGN” or “moves”. Here is the complete game in one clean block.
People also ask
What is the “Game of the Century” in chess?
It’s the nickname given to Donald Byrne vs Bobby Fischer (1956), played in New York. Fischer’s attack is famous for its sacrifices and the spectacular queen sacrifice with 17...Be6!!.
How old was Fischer when he played it?
Fischer was 13.
Why is 17...Be6!! so famous?
Fischer ignores the danger to his queen and plays for forcing moves and coordination. After the queen is taken, Black’s pieces keep checking and winning material until the finish is unavoidable.
What opening was played?
The game transposes into a Grünfeld Defence structure, where development and pressure against the centre become decisive.
Who won the game?
Bobby Fischer won with the Black pieces (0–1), finishing with checkmate.
Common questions and myths
Is it “overrated” because it has a famous title?
The title is dramatic, but the game really is special: the attack is coherent, the pieces coordinate beautifully, and the finish is clean. Even if you wouldn’t rank it as the single best game ever, it’s still one of the most teachable classics.
Would a modern engine find improvements?
Engines often find improvements in classic games — that’s normal. The lasting value here is the pattern of play: development advantage, piece activity, forcing moves, and converting an attack into a win.