An Intermezzo, also known as an In-Between Move or Zwischenzug (German for "intermediate move"), is a tactic in which you insert an unexpected move within a seemingly forced sequence of moves. In the diagram above, Black played 1...Rxh4, expecting an immediate recapture by the white Queen. However, White played the Intermezzo 2.Qd8+, allowing the Queen to recapture on h4 with check and ultimately capture the other Rook too.
When making an Intermezzo: (1) Be mindful of possible counterattacks. Against an Intermezzo: (1) Look for defensive resources that mitigate the impact of the surprise move.
Designed with Love in Italy
These chess icons are our indie studio's tribute to chess lovers around the world. A way of making chess more visual and fun. You can use the icons for free in publicly accessible content, simply by crediting us (see our Licensing Policy). Each icon is paired with examples and numbered insights to help you pick up ideas quickly and talk about chess with confidence. You can get the cards here.
When we started adding a playful touch to chess learning, we looked through thousands of videos and hundreds of books to find the best resources out there. Here's our curated selection of the best content we encountered on Intermezzo tactics. We also included some smaller creators who are growing fast and we believe deserve your attention. Check out these resources if you want to master this tactical pattern.
Watch this video by the great John Bartholomew YouTube channel to have the perfect intro to the Intermezzo tactic. A lot of good advice by John for beginners and intermediates in here.
This is the first of two lessons by GM Kaidanov on the Intermezzo tactic. The positions analyzed in this chess.com series are not for the faint of heart. Enjoy them.
A very well thought-out book by Yasser Seirawan that works perfectly as a general introduction to tactics and combinations for beginners. Many precise definitions and clear examples. Follow all the moves with ease thanks to the interactive e-book reader.
A very rich and detailed collection of not-so-easy tactical exercises, all taken from recent games. This is the first volume of a very successful series by FM Carsten Hansen. Follow all the moves with ease thanks to the interactive e-book reader.
Skip to content
