Jeremy Good wrote on Sun, Dec 10, 2006 09:12 AM UTC:
In standard chess, it is indeed possible to capture the piece that is checking. Escape by fleeing is not the only option. Interposition of another piece is a third option in some cases, but not when attacked by a knight, the only jumping piece.
I recommend this excellent beginner's book for a review of some of the different ways one can check and extricate oneself from check.
An aside: There is a chess variant called Wuss featuring a piece that always must flee - can only flee - when attacked. You might try it out some time. It is very interesting.
In standard chess, it is indeed possible to capture the piece that is checking. Escape by fleeing is not the only option. Interposition of another piece is a third option in some cases, but not when attacked by a knight, the only jumping piece.
I recommend this excellent beginner's book for a review of some of the different ways one can check and extricate oneself from check.
An aside: There is a chess variant called Wuss featuring a piece that always must flee - can only flee - when attacked. You might try it out some time. It is very interesting.