By TNCR Staff
Publication Date: 2026-02-10 16:00:00
Twenty-eight years ago today, a computer changed the course of chess history. On February 10, 1996, IBM’s Deep Blue defeated world chess champion Garry Kasparov in the first game of a six-game match.
This was the first time a machine had beaten a reigning champion under standard tournament rules. Although Kasparov went on to win the match, the outcome of Game 1 was a sign of computing’s future.
Power in Calculation
Deep Blue was built with the clear goal to win at chess.
Developed by IBM researchers, the machine relied on raw processing strength. It could calculate around 100 million moves per second, giving it an edge when facing long lines of play.
Unlike earlier programs that faltered in endgames or lost track of long sequences, Deep Blue remained steady.
Game 1 in 1996 showed that computers could now hold their own at the top level. Deep Blue followed known patterns, applied pressure, and converted small advantages into a win.
That alone…
