The Ten Best Chess Resources on the Web

The Internet is home to countless websites about chess. Among these, there are dozens of good, informative sites that can help you learn about the game, or keep you informed about what's going on in the world of international chess.

Some of these sites stand out from the crowd. Here are 10 resources you shouldn't miss out on.

Chess News

ChessBase - ChessBase is best known as a chess software company, but their website has the best coverage of international chess happenings on the web. From major tournaments to chess politics, ChessBase.com is a one stop source for all the chess news you need to know.

The Week in Chess - TWIC doesn't cover news with the depth of ChessBase, but features the essential information on every major chess tournament in the world. You can find the standings and results for any current event, and search their archives for past events. They also feature pgn files from every event they cover, allowing you to download and play over the games of the world's top players at your leisure.

ChessNinja.com's Daily Dirt - Mig Greengard's Daily Dirt is a great way to keep up with the world of chess in a more informal, conversational tone. Mig shares news, views, and gossip in his own style: he's fair, but not afraid to share his own opinions.

Chess Life Online - The online version of the USCF's popular magazine gives up to date coverage on world chess events, with a special focus on the United States and the top American players.

Gambit - This New York Times blog, run by Dylan Loeb McClain, provides coverage of news and issues effecting the world of chess.

Chess Improvement

Chess Tactics Server - It's common knowledge that the quickest way to improve your chess is to improve your tactical abilities. The Chess Tactics Server contains over 23,000 tactical problems, arranged by difficulty, allowing you to develop the tactical vision you need to succeed.

Novice Nook - While the entire ChessCafe website is great, Dan Heisman's Novice Nook is one of the best chess columns anywhere. Heisman covers a wide range of chess topics that are often overlooked, such as the thinking process, the differences between Hope Chess and Real Chess, time management and the most common mistakes made by players in over-the-board play.

ChessGames.com - This online chess database offers a number of ways to improve your game. Most notably, it makes a great resource for looking up opening lines for new (or old!) ideas.

Chessville - Chessville features a wide variety of instructional chess material, as well as news and book reviews.

Finally, in a small bit of self promotion, I'll recommend my CP page here on Associated Content. With nearly daily updates on chess news, book reviews and instruction for beginners, I hope it will become a worthy addition to this list!