The Immortal Game (1851)
The Immortal Game is the legendary 1851 masterpiece between Adolf Anderssen and Lionel Kieseritzky. White sacrificed a bishop, both rooks, and his queen — before delivering mate with minor pieces. It remains the defining example of Romantic attacking chess.
Interactive Key Positions
Move-by-Move Replay
Tip: Click the board to navigate with your arrow keys.
Full PGN
Historical Context
The game was played in London in 1851 during the first international chess tournament. Although both players competed in the event, this particular game was a casual encounter played during a break. Kieseritzky later sent the moves to Paris, where they were published in a leading chess journal.
A few years later the game was described as “Immortal,” a name that reflected the belief that its beauty would endure. More than 170 years later, it remains one of the most reproduced games in chess literature.
Why Is It So Famous?
Because it demonstrates a core attacking principle: development and coordination outweigh material. Even though White is down massive material in the final position, every remaining piece contributes to the checkmate. The final position is often cited as a model mate.
Common Questions
Was the checkmate actually played?
Historical sources suggest Black likely resigned before the final mating moves were physically played. However, the queen sacrifice continuation is universally shown because it completes the artistic idea.
Is it sound by modern engine standards?
Modern engines find improvements for both sides. But the game is admired for its imagination and harmony, not engine precision.
What pieces were sacrificed?
A bishop, both rooks, and finally the queen. Despite this, the remaining minor pieces deliver checkmate.
What opening was played?
The game began as a King's Gambit Accepted, a very popular Romantic-era opening.