Here is the definitive list of the nine pillars of the Smirnov curriculum. They are categorized into Strategy, Tactics, Openings, and The Mental Game.
What it covers: This is not about "knights before bishops." This course destroys the concept of "good" and "bad" pieces. Smirnov introduces the concept of "Absolute vs. Relative activity."
Who needs it: Absolute beginners to 1800 players who feel like they often have no plan after move 10.
Endgames are often where points are won or lost, yet they are the least studied phase. gm igor smirnov all 9 chess courses new
If you search "gm igor smirnov all 9 chess courses new", you might hope for a shortcut. Can you just buy Course 5 and start sacrificing like Tal?
No. And Smirnov is honest about this.
The 9 courses are sequential. Think of them like university: Here is the definitive list of the nine
If you skip the positional foundation (Course 1), your sacrifices (Course 5) will be illogical. If you skip calculation (Course 2), your endgame (Course 7) will collapse in time trouble.
The good news: The new bundle allows you to access all 9 for the price of roughly 2 private lessons. Most sellers offer the "All 9" pack as a single downloadable ZIP file with video lessons, PGNs, and a 500+ page workbook.
Before diving into the specific courses, it is important to understand the teaching style. Unlike many platforms that rely on memorizing opening lines or solving thousands of tactical puzzles in a vacuum, GM Smirnov focuses on conceptual understanding and psychology. Who needs it: Absolute beginners to 1800 players
His courses are built around the premise that chess improvement comes from understanding general principles, typical patterns, and the logic behind moves, rather than pure calculation. The production quality is generally high, featuring video lessons with graphical overlays that highlight key squares and pieces, making complex ideas easier to visualize.
If you are a serious tournament player (or aspiring to be one) between 1300 and 1900 ELO, buying all 9 is the best money you can spend on chess outside of a personal coach. It replaces a $200/hour coach for 6 months.
If you are a 900-rated rapid player, start with The Universal Opening System and 2000 ELO Tactical Mechanics only.