Episode 1

E1

In the first of two heats, six talented players from across the UK arrive at Cardiff’s former coal exchange. They face a brain-boggling puzzle and a high-stakes speed chess battle.

Episode 2

E2

The five remaining players from the first heat return to the Great Hall to battle it out for a place in the quarter-finals.

Episode 3

E3

The four remaining players from the first heat return to the Great Hall to battle it out for a coveted place in the semi-finals. They are faced with a giant projection screen, and realise an innovative challenge awaits - a memory test set by world number one chess player Magnus Carlsen.

Episode 4

E4

In the second heat, six new players face a gruelling game of speed chess and a puzzle called 'the raging rook', which allows the players to showcase their mastery of one of the most powerful pieces.

Episode 5

E5

The five remaining players from the second heat return to the Great Hall to battle it out for a place in the quarter-finals.

Episode 6

E6

The four remaining players from the second heat face a memory puzzle set by chess superstar and world number one Magnus Carlsen.

Episode 7

E7

Six semi-finalists face child prodigy Bodhana Sivanandan in their toughest challenge yet.

Episode 8

E8

The four finalists return for the last time to the Great Hall, ready to be put through their chess-playing paces like never before. Who will lift the winner’s trophy?