Lasker Simul Special Pin in Chess
The “lasker simul special pin” is a tactical motif from the Lasker Simul Special family where one piece is pinned to a more valuable target, often after a forcing move that fixes the enemy’s structure. In many lines, the defining feature is a pin created against a king-side or central piece while the opponent’s pieces are temporarily overloaded, so the pinned piece can’t respond normally.
To spot the lasker simul special pin, look for moments when your move attacks a piece and simultaneously removes the opponent’s ability to break the line (for example, because capturing would expose the pinned piece or lose the defender). Use it by choosing the move that both establishes the pin and creates a concrete threat—like winning a pawn, stopping a key counterplay square, or gaining tempo before the opponent can unpin or trade.
Frequently Asked Questions: lasker simul special pin
- What exactly makes it a “lasker simul special pin” instead of any pin?
- It’s tied to the Lasker Simul Special setup: the pin is created in a specific tactical context where the opponent’s pieces are positioned so the pinned piece can’t be safely challenged, and the move that establishes the pin usually comes with a forcing threat.
- How do I recognize the pin target during the opening?
- Watch for the piece that lies on the same line as your attacker and a high-value behind-it target (often the king or a major piece). In this motif, the target is frequently a piece that would like to move or capture, but is restricted because doing so would be illegal or would lose material.
- What’s the best way to use the pin—win material or gain tempo?
- Both are common, but the motif is usually strongest when the pin immediately supports a concrete follow-up: winning a pawn, preventing a key defense, or forcing a concession before the opponent can unpin or trade the attacking piece.
- How can my opponent try to neutralize a lasker simul special pin?
- They typically try to break the pin by capturing the pinning piece, interposing a piece on the line (if legal), or trading into a position where the pinned piece’s restriction no longer matters. If you see these resources, choose a follow-up that exploits the pin before the line can be cleared.