New releases: August 2025
Daniel Fernandez: Master the Modern Defence (1…g6) – A Dynamic and Unbalanced Weapon for Black
Daniel Fernandez presents 1…g6 as a flexible and creative weapon. The decision to fianchetto the bishop to g7 creates unbalanced and strategically rich positions. Black can develop along the long diagonal and patiently target White’s strong centre.
Dynamic ideas, strategic depth, and interactive training content make this opening an exciting tool for unconventional Black play.
Free sample
Introduction
King´s Indian Links 4.c4 e5
The Modern Defence (1…g6) is more than just a move – it’s a statement. By opting for a fianchetto setup, you embrace unbalanced and strategically rich positions, steering away from predictable theory battles. This approach allows Black to develop along the long diagonal, patiently targeting White’s strong centre instead of directly challenging it. If you‘re looking to play for a full point with Black, this opening is the perfect addition to your repertoire.
Free video sample: Introduction
Free video sample: King’s Indian Links 4.c4 e5 Firouzja vs Carlsen
ChessBase Magazine 227
ChessBase Magazine is an essential training tool for every ambitious chess player. It contains articles, videos, and annotated games from top players in all areas of training: openings, middlegame, endgame, and tactics. It also takes a closer look at the latest developments on the tournament scene.
Available as a single issue or by subscription (6 issues per year). Available as a direct download or as a download key by post.
Now also available in ChessBase Books format for iPad, tablet, Mac, etc
Free sample
Fortresses with GM Dorian Rogozenco
Biel Chess Festival 2025 with analyses by Aravindh, Navara, Wojtaszek et al. Opening videos by Blohberger, Engel and Sokolov. Training columns ‘The fortress’, ‘Opening traps , ‘Fundamental Endgame Knowledge’ and much more
ChessBase Magazine offers first-class training material for club players and professionals! World-class players analyse their brilliant games and explain the ideas behind the moves. Opening specialists present the latest trends in opening theory and exciting ideas for your repertoire. Master trainers in tactics, strategy and endgames show you the tricks and techniques you need to be a successful tournament player! Available as a direct download (incl. booklet as pdf file) or booklet with download key by post.
Included in delivery: ChessBase Magazine #227 as “ChessBase Book” for iPad, tablet, Mac etc.! -> books.chessbase.com
Garry Kasparov: How to play the Queen’s Gambit
Video training with one of the greatest chess players of all time – and on terrain he knows so well:
Former World Champion Garry Kasparov has researched – and above all – understood the Queen’s Gambit structures like no other. Even for players who don’t include the Queen’s Gambit in their repertoire, this course offers many facets of chess understanding. For anyone who plays the Queen’s Gambit, this course is an absolute must…
Free samples
Introduction
Hanging Pawns d5/c5
In 2004, 13th World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov recorded a best-selling video course on the Queen‘s Gambit. Now, ChessBase is re-releasing this timeless classic in the modern ChessBase Media format – complete with brand-new training features. Get ready to rediscover a masterpiece of chess instruction!
Free sample video: Introduction
Free sample video: Hanging pawns d5/c5
Andrew Martin: Nakamura’s Folly (1.Nf3 followed by e3): Solid, Simple, Smart
If Santasiere’s Folly (1.Nf3 followed by b4) deserves its place in chess folklore, then Nakamura’s Folly (1.Nf3 followed by e3 and possibly b3) certainly deserves equal respect.
In this 60-minute course, IM Andrew Martin introduces you to a flexible and refreshingly simple opening variation that Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura has used to achieve numerous impressive victories.
Free sample
If Santasiere’s Folly (1.Nf3 followed by b4) has earned its place in chess folklore, then Nakamura’s Folly (1.Nf3 followed by e3 and possibly b3) surely deserves the same respect.
In this 60-minute course, IM Andrew Martin introduces you to a flexible and refreshingly simple opening setup – that Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura has used to rack up numerous impressive wins.
With 1.Nf3—a subtle first move that quietly rules out 1…e5—followed by e3 (and sometimes b3), White avoids heavy theoretical battles and aims instead to keep the tension alive. The strategy? Steer the game toward a rich middlegame full of possibilities, while sidestepping the deep waters of mainstream opening theory.
This is an ideal system for practical players: low-maintenance, easy to learn, and packed with strategic bite. With just a basic understanding of the key ideas and structures, you can consistently reach solid and dynamic positions—with real chances to outplay your opponent. Nakamura’s Folly: no theory, no nonsense, just good chess.
Free video sample: Introduction
Robert Ris: The Two Knights: Your Shortcut to Beating the French!
The quick-to-learn secret weapon for all players who aren’t quite sure how to handle the French Defence:
This 60-minute video course contains all the critical variations, key strategic ideas, and tactical patterns, without getting bogged down in endless theory. The Two Knights Variation is the perfect weapon against the French Defence!
Free sample
Struggling against the French Defence? The Two Knights Variation might just change everything! By developing the knights to c3 and f3, White follows a simple yet effective plan: rapid development without heavy theory. Unlike traditional French lines, White no longer supports the centre with the c- and f-pawns. Instead, when Black challenges the centre with the typical …c5 and/or …f6 breaks, White is ready to strike – aiming to capture and play actively against Black’s hanging pawns on d5 and e6. These resulting positions give White excellent chances to seize control of the dark squares and create powerful attacking prospects. In this 60-minutes video you’ll learn all the critical lines, core strategic ideas, and tactical patterns – without drowning in endless theory. If you are looking for a practical, easy-to-learn system to sidestep the main lines and catch your opponent off guard, the Two Knights Variation is your perfect weapon against the French!
Free video sample: Intro
Here are the new releases from previous months:
