The second World Championship meeting between Kasparov and Karpov was held Moscow in 1985. It ended with one of the most memorable games in chess history. Both players were in top form going into the match, both physically and in terms of their mastery at the chessboard. Seemingly refreshed from their five-month-long struggle for the World Championship crown that had ended mere months before the beginning of this match, both Kasparov and Karpov were hungry to prove their superiority over their adversary.

This match consisted of 24 games, as would all future championship matches between the two players. Kasparov got off to a fast start in game one, winning in convincing fashion. After two draws, Karpov took advantage of his opponent's overconfidence and captured games four and five. A series of draws ensued before Kasparov used a powerful queen sacrifice to garner his second victory. The win also helped him regain the confidence he would need to continue his aggressive, attacking-style of chess.

The battle oscillated back and forth over the next 12 games; two victories for Kasparov, one for Karpov and nine draws. Going in to the 24th and final game, Kasparov was ahead 4-3. The World Championship - and Karpov's 10-year stranglehold on the title - was now riding on the outcome of a single game.

Needing nothing less than an outright victory to retain his title, Karpov launched an aggressive attack against Black's king. Kasparov halted this vigorous assault with a brilliant pawn sacrifice, causing Karpov to attempt a blitz counter-offensive. The offensive failed, and Karpov finally conceded defeat. Pandemonium ensued in the playing hall, as Garry Kasparov had captured his first World Championship.