A Critical Review of Yusupov’s “Build Up Your Chess: The Fundamentals”

Chess enthusiasts and aspiring players beware: Yusupov’s “Build Up Your Chess: The Fundamentals” may not be the golden ticket to chess mastery that it’s hyped up to be. In a scathing review, one player shares their disappointment and frustration with the acclaimed series of books.

The reviewer, who owns the German originals of the three ‘Fundamentals’ books, expresses their strong disapproval of the content and structure of the books. They argue that the difficulty level of the positions presented in the books is far too high for beginners, with even experienced grandmasters finding them challenging and demotivating.

One of the key criticisms highlighted in the review is the heavy emphasis on abstract studies rather than practical game scenarios. The reviewer argues that while solving studies may have some benefits, it is not the most direct or enjoyable way to improve practical play. They suggest that aspiring players would be better off investing in a variety of other chess books that focus on specific aspects of the game.

The reviewer also takes issue with the lack of customization in the book’s structure, noting that the rigid progression from one topic to another may not align with individual player preferences or playing styles. They argue that a one-size-fits-all approach to chess improvement is not effective, and players would benefit more from a tailored approach to their specific strengths and weaknesses.

In conclusion, the reviewer advises against purchasing Yusupov’s books, despite their popularity in the chess community. They suggest exploring other resources that offer a more targeted and enjoyable path to chess improvement. With a wealth of chess literature available, players are encouraged to seek out books that align with their individual goals and preferences.

For chess enthusiasts looking to elevate their game, it seems that Yusupov’s “Build Up Your Chess: The Fundamentals” may not be the ultimate solution after all.