Stalemate is a situation in the game of chess where the player whose turn it is to move is not in check but has no legal move. The rules of chess provide that when stalemate occurs, the game ends as a draw.
Lor,
Forcing of stalemate can save you from losing a game though, if you are in such a predicament. In such a case, definitely use it. Of course, your opponent may use it on you too.
Originally posted by JKRock so how do you claim a stalemate? I am attempting to "claim draw" and hit Submit and nothing happens. May be a bug. any advice? thanks
When it is achieved it is automatically announced and the game is over since one player can no longer make any legal move but also is not checkmated.
Stalemate is recognized and declared by the game software. It results in a drawn game but is not a "claimed draw".