Schacksnack

In this video, IM Thomas Engqvist explores Best Play – A New Method For Discovering The Best Move by Alexander Shashin, a revolutionary book aimed at intermediate and advanced players. Shashin introduces a completely new approach to evaluating positions and selecting moves, reducing the typical 5–7 candidate moves to just 2–3, making decision-making far more precise. The method is built around five key elements: material, time, king safety, compactness (density), and spatial expansion (elevation). These are analysed using algorithms inspired by Tal’s attacking style, Capablanca’s strategic manoeuvring, and Petrosian’s defensive mastery. Join Thomas as he breaks down this innovative system and demonstrates how it can transform your understanding of chess.