ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Opposite-colored bishops endgame

When you play chess and almost all the pieces are gone, sometimes all that is left are the two bishops and some pawns. When your bishop is on a black square and your opponent's bishop is on a white square, that is called an opposite-colored bishops endgame.

Why is it important to know about this kind of endgame? Well, because it can be very tricky and difficult to win. With two bishops on the board, it is harder to create a passed pawn (a pawn that can move all the way to the opposite side of the board and become a queen). And because the bishops are on opposite-colored squares, they cannot attack each other. This means it can be harder to attack your opponent's pawns or control certain squares on the board.

But even though it may be harder to win, it doesn't mean it is impossible. In fact, opposite-colored bishops endgames often result in draws (where neither player wins). To win, you need to be patient and use your pawns and king to slowly advance and control the board. Try to create as many weaknesses in your opponent's pawn structure as possible, and gradually improve your own position.

Overall, opposite-colored bishops endgames may be challenging, but they can also be very interesting and strategic. So keep practicing and learning, and who knows, maybe one day you'll be a master at winning in these kinds of endgames!