Skewer
"A tactical attack on two pieces in a line, similar to a pin, but the more valuable piece is in front."
Interactive Demonstration
Visualizing the Concept
Use the interactive board to explore this position. Understanding Skewer is much easier when you can visualize the pieces in action.
4k3/8/8/8/8/8/8/R3K3 w - - 0 1In-Depth Explanation
A skewer is often described as a 'reversed pin'. In a skewer, the attacking piece attacks a high-value piece (like the King or Queen) which is forced to move, exposing a lower-value piece behind it to be captured. It is a powerful way to win material or gain a positional advantage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In a pin, the more valuable piece is behind; in a skewer, the more valuable piece is in front and is forced to move, exposing the piece behind it to capture.
Bishops, rooks and queens – the same long-range pieces that can pin – are the only pieces capable of executing a skewer along a line or diagonal.
Often yes. A skewer usually wins material immediately because the front piece is forced to move, whereas a pin only creates long-term pressure without necessarily winning material.
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