### Clue: Piece – albeit weak – numerous at the outset? (4)
### Answer: PAWN 
 ### Explanation: Piece – albeit weak – numerous at the outset? (4)
The 'primarily' clue in disguise: first letters ('at the outset')** of 'P**iece **A**lbeit **W**eak **N**umerous', with an &lit definition describing a chess game.