The Factor that Decides Most Endgames

In the following endgame, the pawn count and quality would suggest no advantage for either player. Neither player has a passed pawn, nor any notable weakness. However, the placement of the kings makes a significant difference.

A centralized king is a winning factor in tons of endgames. This is because it is more quickly able to reach whichever part of the board it would be most impactful in, which will tend to be the opponent’s half. Here specifically, it is easy to see that White’s king can choose between attacking the kingside pawns by Ke5-f5, or the queenside pawns by Kd5-c6. Because Black’s king is sitting back, it will not be able to hold off either attempt. White will make a passed pawn or two, and that will be that.

What if we shift White’s king back? Compare the following position.

This is now a draw – provided both players are wise in the ways of the opposition – because neither king has an advantage of positioning. For example, 1. Kd2 Kf7 2. Kd3 Ke7! 3. Ke4 Ke6 4. Kd4 Kd6, and an impasse is reached.

So once you reach an endgame – once it’s safe for the king to peek out of its shelter – use the king! It becomes a strong piece, and will be frequently responsible for your victories.