What does lasker simul special mean in chess?

It refers to a practical tactical trick, inspired by Emanuel Lasker’s simultaneous exhibition games, where a surprising move works because the opponent is under pressure and may overlook the best defense.

Is lasker simul special an opening?

No. It is not a formal opening name. It is better understood as a tactical motif or practical idea that can appear in many different openings and middlegame positions.

How do I know if a lasker simul special is sound?

Check whether your move creates forcing threats like checks, captures, or mating ideas, and whether the opponent has a strong defensive resource. If the sacrifice only works because the opponent is likely to blunder, it may be practical but not fully sound.

Can beginners use the lasker simul special idea?

Yes, but they should first learn basic tactics and king safety. The idea is most useful when you can calculate a forcing line and understand why the opponent’s replies are limited.

Lasker Simul Special (1.g3 h5) Chess Puzzles

Most common moves: 1.g3 h5.

The lasker simul special is a tactical idea associated with Emanuel Lasker’s simultaneous exhibition games, where a player creates a surprising move or sacrifice that works because the opponent is under pressure and likely to miss the best defense. For an intermediate player, it usually refers less to a fixed opening and more to a practical trick: a move that looks risky but wins because of hidden tactics, tempo, or a forced sequence. It is a reminder that in chess, psychology and calculation often matter as much as material.

To spot a lasker simul special in your own games, look for positions where your opponent has limited time, their king is slightly exposed, or a piece can be sacrificed to open lines with forcing moves. These ideas are most effective when your move creates immediate threats such as checks, captures, or mating nets, leaving the opponent few good choices. Use it carefully: the concept works best when the tactic is sound, not just because it is surprising.

Win rate for Black in rapid games, among players who reached this opening, by rating band.
Chess.com Elo	Lasker Simul Special	All Black games
750–1000	—	45.6%
1000–1250	—	46.0%
1250–1500	49.6%	45.8%
1500–1750	—	45.5%
1750–2000	—	45.0%

See methodology

Variations of Lasker Simul Special

Lasker Simul Special Other Variations (5)

Combinations of Lasker Simul Special

Frequently Asked Questions: lasker simul special

What does lasker simul special mean in chess?: It refers to a practical tactical trick, inspired by Emanuel Lasker’s simultaneous exhibition games, where a surprising move works because the opponent is under pressure and may overlook the best defense.
Is lasker simul special an opening?: No. It is not a formal opening name. It is better understood as a tactical motif or practical idea that can appear in many different openings and middlegame positions.
How do I know if a lasker simul special is sound?: Check whether your move creates forcing threats like checks, captures, or mating ideas, and whether the opponent has a strong defensive resource. If the sacrifice only works because the opponent is likely to blunder, it may be practical but not fully sound.
Can beginners use the lasker simul special idea?: Yes, but they should first learn basic tactics and king safety. The idea is most useful when you can calculate a forcing line and understand why the opponent’s replies are limited.