Lessons Library
Opposite-Colored Bishop Endgames
Learn why many opposite-colored bishop endings are drawish and when they can still be won.
Why They Are Often Drawish
When each side has only one bishop on opposite colors, the defender can often blockade on squares the attacking bishop cannot control.
Winning Chances
- Two widely separated passed pawns can stretch the defender.
- An active king is critical.
- With queens, rooks, or attacking pieces still on the board, opposite-colored bishops can help the attacker because one color complex becomes hard to defend.