The Charity Chess Challenge between Garry Kasparov and Terence Chapman will revive the tradition of playing chess at Odds. The idea of Odds is simple - the stronger player concedes some material at the start of the game as a handicap. In this case, Garry will be giving Terence two pawns at the start of each game.

The heyday of Odds matches was the mid to late 19th century. As an appetiser, we have put together a few examples of famous players overcoming the material handicap. Enjoy!

Paul Morphy was very briefly the strongest player in the world. The young American came to Europe in 1858 and 1859, beating the top players before returning home to New Orleans. Here we see him producing a cute checkmate attack even though he gives his opponent a rook's start.

Play through Morphy vs. Le Carpentier, 1-0, 13 moves

Emanuel Lasker was the second World Champion, holding the title from 1896 to 1921. Here we see him playing a knight down. Perhaps his slow build up lulled his opponent into a false sense of security. Lasker pulled off a surprise mating attack.

Play through Lasker vs. Beramje, 1-0, 25 moves

Aron Nimzowitsch wrote "My System", perhaps the most famous chess book ever. In the opening chapter he wrote about the importance of getting your pieces developed quickly in the opening. Here he gives his opponent a rook, but it is all over in 13 moves!

Play through Nimzowitsch vs. Amateur, 1-0, 13 moves

Akiba Rubinstein was perhaps the best player never to win the World Championship. He had a very methodical style of play and in this game we see him build up a big centre, drive the enemy pieces back, and deliver a checkmate attack with a cunning king move.

Play through Rubinstein vs. Amateur, 1-0, 22 moves

One of the few places to keep the tradition of Odds Games going is the Royal Automobile Club in London. Here are three games from the Clarence Sadd tournament, which is played there. In each game Black starts off without his f-pawn.

Play through B. Jefferies vs. S. Meyler, 0-1, 30 moves

Play through D. Harding vs. S. Meyler, 0-1, 37 moves

Play through D. Harding vs. S. Meyler, 0-1, 39 moves