Chapter 06 · Beginner+ · 5 min
The pin
A pinned piece cannot move safely because something more important is behind it. It wants to move, but the king says no.
Explanation
Nailing holds a part in place because of what's behind it.
If a bishop attacks a knight, and the king is behind that knight, the knight is pinned. He can't move if it exposes the king. If the piece behind is a queen, he can move legally, but often at a big loss.
Attacking a nailed piece is a very effective strategy. As she moves poorly or not at all, she defends less well. A nailed piece looks like a normal piece, but with a lot more stress.
To remember
A nail stops a part because a more important part is behind it.
Classic error
Move a piece nailed to the king. If it exposes the king, the move is illegal.
Player Tip
Attacks pinned pieces: they often defend less well than they appear.