Smothered Mate
A smothered mate is a checkmate delivered by a knight where the king is unable to move because it is completely surrounded by its own pieces.
Classic Pattern
Typical Setup
The king is on g8 (or g1), surrounded by pieces on f8, g7, and h8 (or f1, g2, h1).
Knight Delivery
A knight on f7 (or f2) delivers checkmate, and the king cannot escape.
Forcing Sequence
Often involves a queen sacrifice to force the king into the corner.
Famous Example: Philidor's Legacy
- The queen gives check
- The king is forced to the corner
- The queen sacrifices itself with check
- The king must capture
- The knight delivers smothered mate
Key Elements
- King Trapped: Surrounded by its own pieces
- Knight Check: The knight delivers the final blow
- No Escape: All escape squares are blocked
- Forcing Moves: Usually requires precise calculation
Creating Smothered Mate
- Force the king to the corner
- Use checks to limit king movement
- Sacrifice material to trap the king
- Deliver the knight check
Avoiding Smothered Mate
- Keep escape squares for your king
- Be aware of knight checks
- Don't trap your own king
- Calculate forcing sequences
Practice Tips
- Study the classic patterns
- Practice Philidor's Legacy
- Look for king positions vulnerable to smothered mate
- Calculate forcing sequences with checks
Smothered mate is one of the most beautiful checkmate patterns in chess.
Related patterns: back-rank-mate, attraction, sacrifice, fork-tactics