Puzzle theme

Intermezzo Puzzles

900+ free intermezzo puzzles in the library

An unexpected intermediate move before the expected continuation.

Every puzzle below comes from a real game where this exact idea decided the outcome. Solve them right here in your browser — hints and full solutions included, no account needed.

Why it works

By inserting an unexpected move, you gain a tempo or improve your position.

What to look for

Before completing an expected sequence, look for stronger in-between moves.

See the pattern

Chess diagram: instead of recapturing the black queen on d4 at once, White has an in-between check on f7
White to move. Instead of recapturing immediately, 1.Bxf7+! — an in-between check that pockets a pawn before 2.Qxd4 restores the balance, a pawn up.

Solve intermezzo puzzles now

Real positions from the library, filtered to this theme. Pick a difficulty and find the best move.

Intermezzo puzzles: frequently asked questions

What are Intermezzo puzzles?

An unexpected intermediate move before the expected continuation. Every puzzle on this page is a position from a real game where exactly this idea decides the outcome.

Why does this pattern work?

By inserting an unexpected move, you gain a tempo or improve your position.

What should I look for in Intermezzo puzzles?

Before completing an expected sequence, look for stronger in-between moves.

Are these Intermezzo puzzles free?

Yes — the trainer on this page pulls from 900+ intermezzo positions in the Blunders library and is free to use in your browser, no account or download required. A free account adds progress tracking and puzzles built from your own games.

Keep training

Related themes

More free training

Stop repeating the same mistakes

Blunders analyzes the games you actually play and turns your mistakes into puzzles like these. Thousands of puzzles and opening training are free. The free account needs no credit card — Pro is optional.