Determining the value of chess pieces will enable you to use them effectively in a game. The value of a chess piece is often based on the range it covers or the number of squares it commands.
Pawn: 1 point – The pawn is the weakest piece in chess. It has a very limited movement and is considered the basic unit.
Bishop and Knight: 3 points – These pieces are worth 3 points each because they have somewhat similar characteristics but are also different. The bishop can move diagonally and reach a more distant position than the knight. The knight, on the other hand, can jump over other pieces.
Rook: 5 points – The rook is a major chess piece. It is one of the pieces that acts as protection and a barricade when other pieces want to attack the king. Two rooks can do enormous damage when their attack is well synchronized.
Queen: 9 points – The queen is the most formidable piece in chess, both in terms of attack and defense. She can move anywhere on the board, including moving like a knight.
King: no point limit – The king does not have a point value because it cannot be taken or the game will be lost.
It’s important to remember that these values can change as the game progresses. A queen may feel powerless against an attack by two bishops or two knights, for example (2 bishops = 2 knights = 6 pawns). When a piece moves, its value may change.
