Definition
Chess Review was a United States–based chess periodical that provided news, game analysis, tournament reports, and instructional material for chess players. The magazine was published from 1933 until 1969, after which it merged with Chess Life.
Overview
Founded in 1933, Chess Review rapidly became one of the leading chess magazines in the United States. It was initially edited by Al Horowitz, a prominent chess writer, and later by other notable figures such as Isaac Kashdan. The periodical was issued on a monthly basis for most of its run, with occasional bimonthly issues during wartime shortages. Its readership included both amateur enthusiasts and professional players. The magazine ceased independent publication in 1969 when it combined with the United States Chess Federation’s official magazine, Chess Life, forming the joint title Chess Life & Review (later simply Chess Life) that continued the tradition of comprehensive chess coverage.
Etymology/Origin
The title Chess Review is a straightforward descriptive phrase: “Chess” denotes the subject matter, while “Review” signifies a systematic appraisal of games, events, and theoretical developments within the sport. No alternative etymological origins are recorded.
Characteristics
- Frequency: Primarily a monthly publication; occasional deviations to bimonthly issues occurred during World War II.
- Content: Featured annotated games from major tournaments, opening theory articles, endgame studies, chess problems, player biographies, and editorial columns. Regular sections included Horowitz’s “The Chess Review” column and contributions from leading masters such as Reuben Fine, Samuel Reshevsky, and Arnold Denker.
- Format: Printed on standard magazine paper (approximately 8.5 × 11 inches), with black‑and‑white illustrations and occasional grayscale photographs. Early issues were bound with a softcover; later editions used a glossy cover.
- Contributors: Aside from the chief editors, the magazine regularly published work by international masters, chess journalists, and amateur analysts, fostering a broad spectrum of viewpoints within the chess community.
- Legacy: The merger with Chess Life preserved many of its editorial policies and contributed to the continuing influence of American chess journalism. Articles originally appearing in Chess Review are frequently cited in historical research on twentieth‑century chess.
Related Topics
- Chess Life – The official magazine of the United States Chess Federation, which incorporated Chess Review in 1969.
- Chess Informant – An international series of chess publications focused on tournament reports and game analysis.
- British Chess Magazine – One of the world’s oldest continuously published chess periodicals.
- Chess journalism – The broader field encompassing periodicals, columns, and digital media covering chess.
- Notable chess magazines – Including Chess, New In Chess, and Egosoft’s Chess Newsletter.