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Tactic

X-Ray Attack

An attacking piece targets an enemy square or piece through an intervening enemy unit.

Starting position

The Setup

White's queen on d5 is under attack by the black rook on d8, which in turn is backed up by the black queen on a8. However, White's rook on d1 has an X-ray connection to the d8 square through the black pieces.

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Move sequences and interactive tour paths for X-Ray Attack

Starting Position (FEN): q2r2k1/5ppp/8/3Q4/8/8/5PPP/3R2K1 w - - 0 1

The X-Ray Checkmate

  • The Setup - White's queen on d5 is under attack by the black rook on d8, which in turn is backed up by the black queen on a8. However, White's rook on d1 has an X-ray connection to the d8 square through the black pieces.
  • Qxd8+: The Queen Sacrifice - White captures the black rook on d8 with check. The black queen on a8 has an X-ray defense of the rook, forcing Black to recapture.
  • Qxd8: The Recapture - Black recaptures the white queen on d8. Now, White's rook on d1 can complete the back-rank checkmate sequence.
  • Rxd8#: Checkmate! - White's rook delivers checkmate. The X-ray attack allowed White's rook to support the queen's sacrifice on the back rank, winning the game.
For experienced players

Look for linear files or diagonals where your rooks, bishops, or queens align with key squares behind your opponent’s defensive screen. An X-ray attack allows you to coordinate threats that your opponent believes are well-blocked.

See also:Pin·Skewer·Double check

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