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Strategy

Pawn phalanx

Two or more pawns side by side, controlling the squares in front of them together.

A phalanx — pawns abreast on the same rank, like pawns on d4 and e4 — controls a broad band of squares and can advance as a unit, cramping the opponent and gaining space.

A mobile phalanx in the centre is a powerful asset; a blocked or overextended one can become a set of targets.

Why it matters

The central phalanx is the engine of many openings' space advantage — knowing when to advance it and when to hold it is core strategy.

The mistake everyone makes

Pushing one pawn of the phalanx prematurely, giving the opponent a fixed target and a beautiful blockading square.

Related terms

Space advantage
Controlling more of the board with your pawns, giving your pieces more room than your opponent's.
Pawn structure
The arrangement of the pawns, which shapes the plans available to both sides.
Outpost
A square in or near enemy territory, protected by a pawn, where a piece can sit untouchable.

See Pawn phalanx in your own games

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