Understanding the endgame is often the differentiator between an average club player and a master. has become a modern classic precisely because it strips away the overwhelming complexity of massive encyclopedias and focuses on the high-frequency positions that actually occur in real games.
The updated editions of by Jesús de la Villa represent a modern standard for chess endgame theory, focusing on practical positions that occur most frequently in real games. As of early 2026, the book has reached its 6th Edition (released January 2023), which includes expanded content and refined explanations. 📚 Key Versions & Formats 100 endgames you must know jesus de la villa pdf upd
Do not use the PDF on your phone while watching TV. Set up each of the 100 positions on a physical board or a training app (like Lucas Chess or ChessBase). Touch the pieces. As of early 2026, the book has reached
Earlier updates included indicators on diagrams to clearly show whose move it is (White or Black) and minor analytical corrections based on engine and tablebase updates. Touch the pieces
| Book | Focus | Difficulty | |------|-------|------------| | 100 Endgames You Must Know – de la Villa | Practical, thematic | Intermediate | | Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual | Complete, rigorous | Advanced / Master | | Silman’s Complete Endgame Course | Rating‑based | Beginner to Expert | | Fundamental Chess Endings – Müller & Lamprecht | Encyclopedic | Advanced |