Chess
https://www.afterburner.com/developing-a-strategic-plan/
https://www.chess.com/article/view/the-psychology-of-the-sacrifice
Usually when a player makes a sacrifice he gets a surge of adrenaline. He is taking a risk. He has sacrificed something physical (material) to gain something “spiritual”. He is making an investment for the future, hoping that this sacrifice will lead to a positive result. He is taking control of the game. Since sacrifices are considered “beautiful”, he can imagine that he might play the “game of the century”. This boost could help, but could also cause the player to do something reckless.
https://www.ichess.net/blog/importance-of-sacrifices-in-chess/
The sacrifice in chess is exactly what has made this game so popular
A real sacrifice involves a radical change in the character of a game which cannot be effected without foresight, fantasy, and the willingness to risk” – Leonid Shamkovich
Metaphors for redemption
https://www.etsjets.org/files/JETS-PDFs/47/47-4/47-4-pp629-645_JETS.pdf
Chess sales.
https://www.holyokeenterprise.com/local/chess-popularity-grows-checks-boxes-challenging-snow-day-fun