Game of the Century
Donald Byrne vs Bobby Fischer (1956)
A masterpiece played by 13-year-old Bobby Fischer against International Master Donald Byrne, showcasing Fischer's extraordinary talent and tactical brilliance.
Donald Byrne
Donald Byrne (1930-1976) was one of America's leading players in the 1950s and 1960s. He was known for his aggressive style and contribution to chess theory, particularly in the King's Indian Defense.
Bobby Fischer
Bobby Fischer, at just 13 years old, demonstrated his exceptional talent in this game. He would later become the World Chess Champion and is considered one of the greatest chess players of all time.
Game Moves
Follow this legendary game where young Fischer sacrifices his queen to create a devastating attack, showcasing tactical brilliance beyond his years.
Key Moments
Historical Context
This game was played in the Rosenwald Memorial Tournament when Bobby Fischer was just 13 years old. His opponent, Donald Byrne, was one of the leading American players at the time. The game received widespread acclaim and was dubbed 'The Game of the Century' by Hans Kmoch in Chess Review. It demonstrated Fischer's extraordinary talent and foreshadowed his future dominance in chess.
Lasting Impact
This game has become one of the most famous chess games ever played, studied by players of all levels. It exemplifies themes of piece coordination, tactical vision, and the power of the initiative. The game particularly stands out for the maturity of Fischer's play at such a young age, featuring a queen sacrifice and a remarkable series of tactical combinations. It remains a testament to Fischer's genius and continues to inspire chess players worldwide.