Why You Win More Chess Games with Black

Many chess enthusiasts have pondered the curious phenomenon of some players consistently winning more with the Black pieces than with White.

In chess, the convention is that the player with the White pieces is more likely to win; White plays the first move, and therefore will always have a one-move advantage that gives them the edge, putting Black on the back foot.

Having said that, many people are very puzzled because they find themselves doing better with the Black pieces. Why could that be the case?

In this article, we explain the factors that contribute to this intriguing occurrence. If you win more chess games with Black and want to know why, this article is for you.

Newbie vs. Newbie: The Black Advantage

First of all, let’s establish that no concrete conclusions can be drawn from games played by newbies.

Beginners cannot make the most out of the White advantage simply because they don’t have good opening knowledge, so when it’s newbie vs newbie, they’re pretty much on even footing from the get-go.

It’s a race of who blunders first, and who blunders more. The one-move advantage that White gets may end up losing them the game since they’re always one step ahead in blunders!

This reminds me of a famous saying by GM Savielly Tartakower.

With that established, let’s now turn our attention to seasoned players and understand why some intermediates, or even masters, play better with the Black pieces.

Adapting to White’s Initiatives

While statistics show that White typically holds a slight advantage due to the first move, there is a subset of players that seem to defy this trend.

Some people like playing with the Black pieces more because they can respond to what their opponent does, tailoring their strategy to exploit weaknesses and counter White’s plans.

Especially in top-level chess, White’s first move usually reveals their attacking plan to some extent, while Black’s response to that plan is in the realm of the unknown. It’s as if your opponent shows their hand while you’re still hiding the cards you were dealt.

The luxury of observing your opponent’s initial move allows you to react accordingly, finding opportunities for counterplay as the game unfolds. This reactionary approach can sometimes be more effective than proactively trying to force a win.

Players who see more success with the Black pieces are usually very good at adapting to White’s initiatives. They anticipate and counteract White’s opening choices effectively.

Psychology and the Black Advantage

One explanation for winning more with the Black pieces may lie in psychology.

Because Black is perceived to be at a disadvantage, some players may find that the increased pressure of playing with Black drives them to fully focus and play their best game.

On the other hand, some individuals feel less pressure when playing as Black; they enter the game with a subconscious underdog mentality, which allows them to adopt a more relaxed and adaptable mindset. Many players play more aggressively and creatively when free from the pressure of expectations.

With the pressure being on White to prove their advantage, they will be nothing short of devastated if Black manages to turn the tables around and seize the initiative.

Black also has the opportunity to surprise White with unexpected openings or defensive strategies, catching them off guard and disrupting their pre-planned tactics. This element of surprise can throw White players off balance, giving Black players an edge in the early stages of the game.

Preparation and Opening Knowledge

Players who consistently get good results with Black invest substantial effort in their opening preparation. They methodically study various openings and their corresponding variations, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges they may face. In-depth opening knowledge allows them to navigate the early game with confidence.

Again, playing an unfamiliar or unconventional opening as Black can provide a psychological edge, but the prerequisite for that is sound opening knowledge.

Opponents who expect a traditional response may be caught off guard, leading to mistakes that Black can exploit. Creative opening choices can create unbalanced positions where the player’s understanding of the nuances of the game can really shine.

Aggressive and Tactical Play

Successful Black-piece players have a knack for seizing opportunities when White overextends. They are vigilant and tactical, ready to pounce on any mistakes. Their aggressiveness can lead to punishing White’s overambitious strategies.

By seeking complex and tactical battles, some Black players create positions that require both sides to navigate intricate tactical sequences. Their in-depth tactical understanding and willingness to enter complicated positions can yield favorable outcomes.

Consistency and Experience

Winning more with Black isn’t just about a few isolated victories but maintaining consistency over time.

Players who excel with Black have honed their skills through extensive practice and experience. Their ability to apply strategies and tactics consistently makes them formidable opponents.

Each game as Black (and White) offers an opportunity for learning and growth. Successful players use losses as a source of improvement, analyzing their games to identify weaknesses and refine their skills. This commitment to learning is a crucial aspect of their success.

Final Thoughts

The phenomenon of winning more with the Black pieces is a testament to the depth of the game of chess and the diverse skills of its players.

Factors such as beginner level, psychology, preparation, aggressive play, and consistent learning contribute to this occurrence. For aspiring chess enthusiasts, understanding the principles that underlie this phenomenon can be a source of inspiration and motivation to enhance their own chess skills, whether with White or Black.

The truth is, you will play half the games in your life with Black and half with White, so you have to be prepared to play with either color.

Overall, the advantage of playing with White versus Black is considered to be small and depends on the skill and style of the individual player.

If you have any questions or insights you’d like to share, feel free to leave me a comment. I’d love to have a chat with you.