What is Positional Player?

A positional player is a chess player who aims to achieve a well-coordinated set-up of chess pieces by focusing on strategic long-term aspects of the game, rather than launching immediate attacks to gain tactical advantage. This type of player prioritizes control of key squares, pawn structures, maneuvering of pieces to optimal squares, and maintaining a solid, well-structured defence. Positional players are characterized by their careful, patient, and calculating approach, often aiming to accumulate small advantages which can turn into a winning position in the endgame.