There are numerous platforms and resources online where you can learn chess for free:
Chess.com: Offers free articles, videos, and a forum. You can also play against other people online for free.
Lichess.org: Provides interactive lessons, puzzles, and games against other players. It's entirely free and open-source.
Chess24.com: While not all content is free, Chess24 offers free live grandmaster commentary on tournaments and events.
YouTube Channels: Channels like Agadmator, ChessNetwork, and GM Igor Smirnov himself offer high-quality content for free, though not as structured as paid courses.
ChessKid.com: Great for beginners, offering interactive lessons and games.
Igor Smirnov (born 1987) is a Ukrainian GM with a peak FIDE rating of 2580+. He’s coached hundreds of students to master titles and runs the Remote Chess Academy (chess-teacher.com). Unlike many GMs who just show off, Smirnov focuses on practical chess – winning fast, understanding patterns, and avoiding over-reliance on engines.
His teaching style is direct: “Stop memorizing openings. Learn how to think.”
If you’ve spent any time in online chess circles, you’ve likely heard of GM Igor Smirnov. A Ukrainian grandmaster and founder of the Remote Chess Academy (RCA), Smirnov is known for practical, no-fluff training that targets club players (1400–2200 Elo). He’s authored nine core courses covering everything from positional play to calculation and attacking chess.
But a quick search shows some players looking for “cracked” or “free” versions of his courses. Let’s address that head‑on — and then explore smart, legal ways to access top‑tier chess training without breaking the bank.
RCA runs “All Courses Bundle” sales where you get all 9 for ~70% off. Sign up for their newsletter. gm igor smirnov all 9 chess courses top crack free
Unlike DRM‑locked video games, chess courses are sometimes resold. Check chess forums (Chess.com, Reddit r/chess) for users selling licenses at a discount. Ensure the transfer is approved by RCA support.
Pirated chess courses come with hidden costs:
You searched for “crack free” – meaning you likely want the courses without paying. Here’s the brutal truth:
The Complete Repertoire for Black according to the Smyslov Strategy
Content: This course offers a comprehensive repertoire for Black, based on the strategic principles of Vasily Smyslov, one of the greatest World Chess Champions. Smirnov guides students through the openings, middlegame strategies, and endgames, focusing on how to counter White's moves effectively.
Key Takeaways: Understanding Smyslov's strategic approach, building a solid repertoire for Black, and mastering counterplay.
The Complete Repertoire for White according to 1.e4
Content: Smirnov presents a full repertoire for White, starting with the move 1.e4. This course covers popular openings such as the Ruy Lopez, Italian Game, and the Sicilian Defense (as a response to 1.e4).
Key Takeaways: Mastery of 1.e4 openings, understanding tactical and strategic motifs.
The Grandmaster’s Positional Play Course Accessing Free Chess Courses There are numerous platforms
Content: This course dives into the positional aspects of chess, teaching students how to create long-term strategic plans, manipulate pawn structures, and leverage piece placement.
Key Takeaways: Enhancing positional understanding, improving strategic planning.
The Grandmaster’s Endgame Course
Content: Focusing on the endgame, Smirnov shares insights into converting advantages into wins. The course covers basic and advanced endgames, including rook and pawn versus rook.
Key Takeaways: Proficiency in basic and complex endgames, improving conversion rates.
The Art of Attack in Chess
Content: Smirnov shares his insights on how to conduct successful attacks. This course includes famous games and detailed analyses of attacking strategies.
Key Takeaways: Understanding attacking principles, improving tactical awareness.
Mastering the Art of Defense
Content: Not everything in chess can be won; sometimes, defense is the best strategy. This course teaches students how to defend difficult positions, turn the tables, and counter-attack. Lichess
Key Takeaways: Enhancing defensive skills, learning to find counterplay.
Chess Puzzles & Brain Storm: A Fun Way to Boost Your Chess
Content: A unique course aimed at improving tactical vision and problem-solving through puzzles and exercises.
Key Takeaways: Enhanced tactical vision, improved calculation skills.
How to Think in Chess: The Grandmaster’s Method
Content: Smirnov emphasizes the importance of critical and creative thinking in chess. He shares his method for analyzing positions and planning moves.
Key Takeaways: Improving analytical skills, developing a personal approach to chess.
The Club Player’s Most Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Content: Aimed at club players, this course highlights common mistakes and how to avoid them. Smirnov provides practical advice on improving quickly.
Key Takeaways: Identifying and fixing common mistakes, rapid improvement strategies.