Rules

What is a fifty-move rule in chess?

  • Rules
  • Legality
  • Result

The fifty-move rule allows a draw claim if fifty moves by each side pass without a pawn move or capture. It matters most in long endgames where one side is trying to prove progress.

What to look for on the board

  • Whether the move is legal.
  • Whether the rule changes the result.
  • Whether a special case applies.

Related terms

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