One of the first lessons we are taught in the beginning of our chess journey is how much every piece on the board is “worth”. However, the more we master the game, the more we realize that the “true” value of pieces can differ from their theoretical value, depending on the subtleties of the position. When faced with material imbalances, it can be challenging to come to a correct evaluation and decide which plans to pursue. This DVD focuses on several types of material imbalances, such as Rook vs 2 Minor Pieces, Queen vs 2 Rooks, and Queen vs Pieces. In this series, you will learn some general guidelines, explore model games played by the best players in the world, and test your knowledge through practice positions.

Grandmaster Harshit Raja, India’s 69th GM, has created a practical and powerful 1.e4 repertoire - perfect for players who want to play aggressively without drowning in opening theory. Whether you’re playing online or over-the-board, this course gives you solid attacking weapons that are easy to learn, fun to play, and difficult for opponents to face. 

Free sample video: Introduction

Free sample video: Scandinavian Defence

In today’s fast-paced chess world, especially online, where blitz and rapid games dominate, the traditional approach of grinding through lines of opening theory can feel overwhelming, and even unnecessary. The real challenge? Striking the right balance in your opening preparation. How deep should you go? Where do you stop? This course is built on the timeless wisdom of my legendary coach, Chebanenko, who designed opening repertoires for his “lazy” students - not lazy in attitude, but smart in approach. His philosophy? Don’t memorise. Understand.

Free sample video: Introduction

Free sample video: 1.d4 d6 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.c4 g6 4.Nc3 Bf5 5.Nh4 Bd7

Every game begins with the opening - and even sometimes ends there! That doesn't have to be the case. With the ChessBase tutorials, you can rapidly get up to speed. "Openings Vol. 1: Open Games (1.e4 e5)" is the first part of a five-volume series on the basics of chess openings. Here you will learn from experienced coaches and experts just what you absolutely need to know about the individual areas, which basic plans are followed, how to play them and what pitfalls to watch out for. In 23 video lessons you will learn everything you need to know about the King's Gambit, the Vienna Game, the Italian, the Evans Gambit, the two-knight game, the Scottish, the Steinitz and Berlin defences, the Open Spanish or the exchange variation, Marshall, Philidor and Russian and much more.