This book investigates the specific decision-making processes and strategic methodologies that distinguish grandmaster-level chess play from amateur performance. John Nunn, a renowned grandmaster and chess author, utilizes his extensive competitive experience to dissect high-level games. By examining twenty specific matches, the authors provide a framework for evaluating complex positions and identifying the tactical nuances that lead to victory at the highest level of the game.

Chess experts frequently cite this work as a high-quality instructional text for intermediate to advanced players looking to improve their analytical depth. Readers often note the clarity of the prose and the logical progression of the tactical explanations provided by the authors.