Chess provides a strategic challenge for constantly active minds and rapid accumulation of frequent-flyer miles for constantly moving bishops. See the sights of simulated combat with today's Groupon: for $89, you get three Chess Shop Academy lessons from New York City Chess Inc. (a $165 value) plus $10 toward club play and $10 toward merchandise at Village Chess Shop (a $185 total value).

Pairing students with knowledgeable faculty members, New York City Chess Inc.’s gamemasters promote the practice of chess’s intricate strategies. Players of all ages and ability levels assemble at the Village Chess Shop for each one-hour lesson, traversing the checkered board with experience-appropriate instruction. Students study the pieces and their patented moves within a private area free from distraction or jealous checkers before unveiling newly acquired skills during one free hour of club play per lesson in the Village Chess Club. For further practice against competition, chess students will receive $10 towards further hours of club play ($3 / hour). Instructors remain as flexible as the Queen’s Gambit, scheduling lessons on a weekly, bi-weekly, or per-session basis.

The Village Chess Shop's doors swing open 24 hours a day and seven days a week for lessons and tournaments throughout the year. Students also receive $10 toward merchandise at the Village Chess Shop, bulking up on an assortment of gear, including chess sets, strategy books such as Playing Chess ($7.95), or an autographed copy of Garry Kasparov’s 1984 Tiger Beat cover.