It has been seen that a game is divided arbitrarily into three phases: the opening, the middle game and the end game. An advantage gained in the opening will be carried into the middle game; so it follows that the opening will tend to shape the course of a game.
Chess openings have, as might be expected, provided the chief source of research for analysts down the ages. Fortunately no perfect opening has been discovered: the subtleties of a game invented by man transcend man’s breadth of knowledge – and seem likely to do so for ever.
Nevertheless, chess scholars have succeeded in determining and classifying the best of the initial moves for both sides to various degrees of profundity. The net result of these years of constant research proves only that there is no proof; that if both players adopt the best lines of play, the game will remain approximately level. Theory is always changing – there are schools of thought in chess as in literature – and what was considered best a hundred years ago is classed as only mediocre today. Since analysis is recorded and published, however, the sum of our knowledge of the openings is constantly increasing – not a month passes without new discoveries, of greater or lesser importance, being added to this sum. Even a quite elementary book on the openings will bewilder the new player, conveying the impression that chess is a profound esoteric science rather than a game. Page upon page of continuations, prefaced by exotic names and punctuated with seemingly endless footnotes, each subdividing into further enumerated variations, are enough to frighten the most composed and self-confident of novitiates.
Such works, however, are rarely treated as more than sources of reference; mentors to indicate the pitfalls that attend the unwary, surgeons to assist the student conducting his own post mortem.
A good player will follow a book line without being conscious of doing so – simply because his moves are the best in the position with which he is confronted and, in consequence, are listed in the opening compendiums.
The purely “book” player, however, will be at a disadvantage if the opponent deviates from the accepted line. In order to play chess openings well, it is not only essential that an elementary knowledge of the approved lines is acquired, but, more important, that the ideas that activate these lines are clearly understood.
Openings are loosely divided into “open” and “close” games.
Open games are those in which the pieces are developed quickly, and the play is directed chiefly along tactical lines – games commencing: 1. e4 e5 are mostly in this category; close games are those in which play develops along strategical lines (for example: 1. d4 d5). Broadly speaking, pieces are posted in front of the pawns in open games, behind the pawns in close games. Certain openings fall between these two groups and are classed as “half-open”.
There are about a score of important openings and several hundred minor and branch openings recognized. In each of these there are variations and sub-variations.
Some of these openings are acknowledged as better than others, but, in general, choice of opening is dependent upon style; players selecting lines of play (so far as it is in their power to do so) most suited to their temperament.
The majority of openings commence with: 1. e4 or d4. Occasionally one of the bishop’s pawns is advanced, or a knight brought out first, but rarely a wing pawn. Openings that begin: 1. d4 – the close games – usually have deep-rooted ideas and involve long-term strategy, and are therefore best avoided in the early stages of a player’s development. In this chapter attention will be mainly directed to those openings arising from: 1. e4.
All opening theory is based on the control of the centre, the importance of which has already been demonstrated. Control may be effected in three ways:
1. Occupation – by the establishment of pieces on the centre squares.
2. Delayed occupation – by permitting the opponent to occupy the centre at first, then attempting to undermine and break up the position.
3. Remote control – by commanding the centre from a distance by means of the pieces without actually occupying the squares. In this technique one or both bishops are fianchettoed.
It is possible in the opening to sacrifice material in order to gain time in development. An opening sacrifice of this nature is called a gambit. There are a number of recognized gambits, the most common being the King’s Gambit and the Queen’s Gambit, in both of which a pawn is offered.
Amongst strong players, an extra pawn on one side in the opening, provided other factors – time and space, that together govern position – are equal, is usually sufficient to win.
With average club players of experience, a minor piece ahead will usually prove decisive. From this, it will be seen that a strong player who succeeds in refuting a gambit and obtaining equality in position is well on the way to victory.
After this superficial survey of opening theory, let us follow an established method of opening, endeavouring to understand the principles underlying the play. The reader may pass straight on to the next chapter, returning to the study of the openings after mastering middle and end game play.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
e4 |
e5 |
Black could also reply here 1. . . . c5 (the Sicilian Defence); 1. . . . e6 (the French Defence); 1. . . . c6 (the Caro-Kann Defence); 1. . . . Nf6 (Alekhine’s Defence); 1. . . . d5 (the Centre Counter or Scandinavian Defence), etc. This will give an idea of the choice open to the second player at the start of a game. Each of these defences has its own characteristics and its own advocates. After White’s initial pawn advance, Black is in a position to dictate, to a great extent, the future course of the game.
2. |
Nf3 |
Nc6 |
We have already seen that both of these are good moves.
3. |
Bc4 |
Bc5 |
These three moves give the opening its name – the Giuoco Piano. The Giuoco is characterized by the quick development of the pieces and direct play in the centre. These straightforward aims recommend it to the student.
4. |
c3 |
Preparing the advance of the d-pawn.
. . . |
Nf6 |
4. . . . Qe7 is a good alternative. Black’s move attacks the undefended e-pawn.
5. |
d4 |
exd4 |
6. |
cxd4 |
|
The black bishop is again attacked, and since the d-pawn is twice protected, capture would only result in the loss of a piece. The white pawn on d4 is referred to as the d-pawn or the queen’s pawn, even though it started life on c2. Pawns, unlike the other pieces, assume the name of the file on which they stand.
6. |
. . . |
Bb4+ |
A check to some purpose, as will be seen. No check should be made just for the pleasure of announcing it.
7. |
Bd2 |
Bxd2+ |
8. |
Nbxd2 |
|
Both white knights can capture the bishop, but this move develops another piece. Also, if 8. Nfxd2 Nxd4 and Black has won a pawn. If 8. Qxd2, Black replies Nxe4, again winning a pawn. 8. Kxd2 would be bad: (1) it would permit Black 8. . . . Nxe4+; (2) White would thereby surrender the privilege of castling; (3) the move would not help White’s development.
8. |
. . . |
d5! |
Black strikes at the right moment.
9. |
exd5 |
Nxd5 |
In open positions of this nature bishops are slightly superior to knights, so White prefers not to surrender the bishop with 10. Bxd5 Qxd5.
10. |
Qb3 |
Attacking the king’s knight twice.
10. |
. . . |
Nce7 |
Not 10. . . . king’s knight moves 11. Bxf7+ nor 10. . . . Be6 11. Qxb7.
11. |
0-0 |
0-0 |
Both sides castle king’s-side and the position in diagram 39 is now reached. Black has equalized.
Another example of the Giuoco Piano, in which White gains the ascendency.
White |
Black |
|
1. |
e4 |
e5 |
2. |
Nf3 |
Nc6 |
3. |
Bc4 |
Bc5 |
4. |
c3 |
Nf6 |
5. |
d4 |
exd4 |
6. |
cxd4 |
Bb4+ |
So far, the same as the previous example.
7. |
Nc3 |
White, instead of interposing the bishop (the more passive line), sacrifices a pawn for speedy development.
7. |
. . . |
Nxe4 |
8. |
0-0 |
|
White is now threatening Nxe4. Note that before castling there was no threat as the queen’s knight was pinned by the bishop.
8. |
. . . |
Bxc3 |
9. |
d5! |
|
A surprising move. Instead of recapturing the bishop, White attacks another piece. Black has now two pieces attacked simultaneously by pawns, an undefended knight in a precarious position and a king in considerable danger. To compensate, Black is a piece and a pawn ahead.
9. |
. . . |
Ba5 |
9. . . . Bf6 was a sound alternative, which, according to theory, gives Black good chances.
10. |
dxc6 |
White regains the piece and is now only a pawn in arrears.
10. |
. . . |
0-0? |
Black castles at the wrong moment. Correct was 10. . . . bxc6.
11. |
Qd5 |
A good example of when a queen may be brought out with safety in the opening. Black has two undefended pieces: the bishop on a5 and the knight. The queen now attacks them both.
11. |
. . . |
Nd6 |
The only move. Black prepares a counter. If now 12. Qxa5 Nxc4.
Bd3 |
White now threatens to win a piece with Qxa5.
12. |
. . . |
Bb6 |
13. |
Bxh7+ |
|
And here we are at the typical B/Q/N attack on the castled king (diagram 16, page 76). Black can only avoid mate by ruinous loss of material. A good sample of an open game: highly tactical, with time as valuable a commodity as force. In a close position, a player may make four or five consecutive moves with a knight in order to post it on a good square, whereas even two such moves in a game like this could result in calamity.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
e4 |
e5 |
2. |
Nf3 |
Nc6 |
3. |
Nc3 |
Nf6 |
Now all four knights are in play and the position is solid on both sides. This opening is known as the Four Knights’ Game, and since it is lacking in punch – White’s third move could hardly be called aggressive – it is favoured, in general, by those who like to “play safe”.
4. |
Bb5 |
Bb4 |
5. |
0-0 |
0-0 |
The development of both sides has been logical. First the knights came out, then the freed bishops before the d-pawns were advanced to free the remaining bishops. Both sides then castled so that after the advance of the d-pawns, the queens’ knights would not be pinned.
d3 |
d6 |
|
7. |
Bg5 |
|
Pinning the knight, White is threatening the powerful Nd5 putting further pressure on the pinned piece.
7. |
. . . |
Bxc3 |
8. |
bxc3 |
h6 |
Attacking the bishop. Black cannot afford to release the knight by moving the queen, since White would then exchange bishop for knight when Black, being compelled to recapture with the g-pawn, would be left with a weak king’s position. Often in the opening a knight can be unpinned by Qd6, a move which allows the recapture with the queen should the knight be taken. This move is not, of course, possible here as d6 is occupied by a pawn.
9. |
Bh4 |
Qe7 |
Black dare not now play g5 to release the knight, as the king’s position would then become very weak. White could sacrifice with advantage: 10. Nxg5 hxg5 11. Bxg5, and the knight remains pinned with the black king deprived of all pawn shelter. Since Black did not intend to follow up the attack on the bishop, what was the point of h6? This type of position occurs in almost every opening and its anatomy is worth attention. The move does not lose time since the bishop is compelled to retire, and its importance lies in the fact that g5, although not immediately practical, can be held in reserve as an option should the need arise. Further, the move provides a square for the king at h7 which might prove useful later if back-rank mates threaten (see diagram 18, page 76).
10. |
Qd2 |
A multi-purpose move. Its merits are worthy of analysis: (a) it prevents, at least for the time being, g5 since this would be swiftly punished: 10. . . . g5? 11. Nxg5 hxg5 12. Qxg5+ Kh7 13. Qxf6 and White stands two pawns to the good. (b) It neutralizes the counter-pin 10. . . . Bg4. (c) It unites the two white rooks, which we know to be desirable. (d) It affords protection to the undefended white pawn at c3.
The position in diagram 41 has now been reached. An assessment of the game at this point shows that White stands very marginally better: (a) the pin is still in place; (b) the b-file is open for the white rooks to occupy; (c) White has attack possibilities with an eventual advance of either the d- or f-pawn; (d) White has the slight advantage of the two bishops. Black is solid but has no visible attacking prospects at this stage.
The King’s Gambit was very popular in the nineteenth century. The opening provides a good example of speedy development of the pieces; play is often wild with both sides in peril of a sudden collapse. Here is a typical skirmish:
White |
Black |
|
1. |
e4 |
e5 |
2. |
f4 |
This move establishes the opening. Black may now either accept or decline the gambit pawn.
2. |
. . . |
exf4 |
Black can decline the gambit by 2. . . . d5 or 2. . . . Bc5.
3. |
Nf3 |
Attacking the centre and preventing 3. . . . Qh4+. This early knight move is common to almost all openings and is very rarely inferior.
3. |
. . . |
g5 |
Black supports the pawn at f4. Notice that the g-pawn is guarded by the queen so White cannot play 4. Nxg5. The main point of White’s play in the King’s Gambit is the attack against the weak point in Black’s defence: the f7 square. The surrender of the f-pawn by White opens the file for the rook (after castling) to bear indirectly against this weak point. In order to keep the f-file closed, Black endeavours to maintain the advanced pawn, but 3. . . . d6 is less hazardous.
4. |
h4 |
Hitting at the support.
4. |
. . . |
g4 |
Black has little option but to advance. If 4. . . . gxh4 Black’s pawns are hopelessly weakened and neither f6 nor h6 is playable: (a) 4. . . . f6 5. Nxg5 fxg5 6. Qh5+ Ke7 7. Qxg5+ Nf6 8. e5 and White recovers the piece with a winning attack. Or (b) 4. . . . h6 5. hxg5 hxg5 6. Rxh8 and wins.
5. |
Ng5 |
This variation is known as the Allgaier Gambit.
5. |
. . . |
h6 |
The knight is trapped.
6. |
Nxf7 |
White has sacrificed a piece to disrupt Black’s king’s side.
6. |
. . . |
Kxf7 |
Black has no choice as the rook and queen are forked.
7. |
d4 |
Now the bishop attacks the pawn on f4. Observe that White concentrates on speedy development. If 7. Qxg4 Nf6 and Black gains time by attacking the queen. 7. Bc4+ is also good.
7. |
. . . |
d5 |
Black must counter-attack quickly. 8. . . . f3 was a good alternative.
8. |
Bxf4 |
Nf6 |
8. . . . dxe4 allows 10. Bc4+, developing another piece. Black is aiming to keep the position as closed as possible. If the Black forces can be marshalled in time, the extra piece will prove a telling advantage.
9. |
Nc3 |
Black was threatening 10. . . . Nxe4.
9. |
. . . |
Bb4 |
10. |
Be2 |
White is staking everything on attack. The position now reached is typical of the opening; there are good chances for both sides in practical play, when there is the time factor to be considered (in fact, theoretically lost positions are often won in practice: time is on the side of the attacker). Notice that Black’s queen’s side is still undeveloped. (See diagram 42.)
One of the oldest and most popular openings is the Ruy Lopez, named after a Spanish priest of the sixteenth century. Recent analysis shows that the Lopez does not confer the marked advantage to White it was once thought it did, but no one will assert that the last work has been said on this remarkable opening.
The centre remains the focus of action for both sides, but strategy rather than tactics forms the basis of action.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
e4 |
e5 |
2. |
Nf3 |
Nc6 |
3. |
Bb5 |
|
The purpose of this move is not at once apparent. It does not pin the black knight and the continuation 4. Bxc6 dxc6 5. Nxe5 is not a threat because of 5. . . . Qd4! attacking both the knight and the e-pawn, with a good game for Black.
3. |
. . . |
a6 |
Black attacks the bishop immediately with essentially the same idea we saw in Opening 3. Black has several playable moves in this position: 3. . . . Nf6; 3. . . . Bc5 and 3. . . . d6 are examples. The text (i.e. the move played) is probably the best, however, as after the retreat of the bishop Black may still adopt any of these continuations.
4. |
Ba4 |
Nf6 |
Black develops a piece, attacking White’s e-pawn in the process.
5. |
0-0 |
White ignores the attack, sacrificing the pawn for speed of development.
5. |
. . . |
Nxe4 |
Black had the choice here of two contrasting lines of play. The text opens the game, promising lively play by both sides. The more popular alternative, 5. . . . Be7, keeps the position closed, at least for the time being. A good example of where players of different temperament and style would diverge.
6. |
d4 |
Vigorous play is called for.
6. |
. . . |
b5 |
7. |
Bb3 |
d5 |
Black counters in the centre and gives back the pawn. The player who accepts a sacrifice can often return the material at the right moment with advantage. The value of Black’s third move is now clear. If it had not been played, White would have exchanged the bishop for the knight at the right time, hindering or even preventing the advance of Black’s d-pawn.
8. |
dxe5 |
Nxe5 was also playable.
8. |
. . . . |
Be6 |
White was threatening to capture the d-pawn.
9. |
c3 |
Securing the square d4 and allowing the king’s bishop to be brought into play on the king’s side.
9. |
. . . |
Be7 |
The main alternative is 9. . . Bc5, putting pressure on the f2 square.
10. |
Nbd2 |
0-0 |
11. |
Qe2 |
|
Threatening to win a pawn by 12. Nxe4 dxe4 13. Qxe4.
11. |
. . . |
Nc5 |
A possible alternative is 11. . . . Nxd2, even though it exchanges off a piece that has no immediate use and brings White’s bishop into play, thereby uniting the rooks.
12. |
Nd4 |
This move accomplishes several things. It stops the advance of the d-pawn, attacks Black’s knight, and allows the f-pawn to advance with consequent gain in mobility for the rook behind it. The queen’s knight now has a good square to move to, releasing the bishop. It is pleasing to see how positions unfold in this manner, each piece gracefully moving into its place in the opening framework.
This would be a good point to leave the game, which is on the point of entering the middle game stage. White is playing for a K-side attack, with the aim of keeping the centre and the queen’s wing closed. Black, on the other hand, has no chances on the K-side, and will play for a Q-side attack. Note that Black has the pawn majority on the queen’s wing, White on the king’s wing, an alignment which is conducive to a two-wing struggle. In the position, Black’s immediate aim is to play c5 as soon as possible – an objective which will be resisted by White. So long as the c-pawn remains backward, Black will be unable to assert superiority on this side. Broadly speaking, White may be said to have kept the advantage of the initial move.
The Queen’s Gambit was first mentioned at the end of the fifteenth century but only gained popularity in the 1890s. In the 1920s and 1930s it became established as one of the most popular in tournament chess.
Compared with the King’s Gambit, the Queen’s Gambit is dull in the sense that there is little action in the initial stages. Both sides concentrate on developing their forces, which is accomplished without undue interference.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
d4 |
d5 |
2. |
c4 |
|
The Queen’s Gambit. As in the King’s Gambit, Black may now accept or decline the proffered pawn, but whereas in the King’s Gambit acceptance of the pawn is normal, the reverse is true of the Queen’s Gambit.
2. |
. . . |
e6 |
This move shuts in the QB, the development of which is the chief headache for Black in this opening. Black can obviate the problem by playing here 2. . . . c6 (the Slav Defence), keeping the diagonal clear for the bishop, but it also has its disadvantages. If the Black d-pawn is left unattended, White gains time and a powerful centre with 3. cxd5 Qxd5 4. Nc3 followed by 5. e4.
3. |
Nc3 |
Nf6 |
White covets control of the two white squares in the centre, Black’s move counters the attack.
4. |
Bg5 |
Pinning the knight, thereby neutralizing its restraining influence on the centre.
4. |
. . . |
Nbd7 |
Setting a trap whilst developing a piece. If White now continues 5. cxd5 exd5 6. Nxd5? Nxd5! 7. Bxd8 Bb4+ 8. Qd2 (White has no option) Bxd2+ 9. Kxd2 Kxd8, Black has won a piece.
5. |
e3 |
Be7 |
White frees the king’s bishop and also threatens cxd5 as now the king would have an escape square (e2) after the bishop check. Black’s reply unpins the knight, and if now: 6. Bxf6 Nxf6 and not Bxf6, losing a pawn after 7. cxd5 exd5 8. Nxd5.
6. |
Nf3 |
A quiet developing move asserting White’s control of e5.
6. |
. . . |
0-0 |
7. |
Rc1 |
|
The move order is important. The position is pregnant with possibilities, and as so often in chess, the most interesting variations are those which are not played.
7. |
. . . |
c6 |
8. |
Bd3 |
dxc4 |
Black waits until after the bishop has moved before capturing the pawn, thereby causing White to lose time.
9. |
Bxc4 |
Nd5 |
Black, whose pieces need air, must find a good square for the queen’s bishop.
10. |
Bxe7 |
Qxe7 |
11. |
0-0 |
Nxc3 |
12. |
Rxc3 |
e5 |
Black has at last succeeded in playing e5, freeing the bishop, but White is ahead in development.
13. |
dxe5 |
White decides to dissolve the centre.
13. |
. . . |
Nxe5 |
14. |
Nxe5 |
Qxe5 |
15. |
f4 |
|
We now reach a position (diagram 44) commonly arrived at in the Queen’s Gambit. Although White has more pieces in play, Black’s position is solid, and with correct play a draw should result.
We have seen that Black has several good defences to 1. e4 without replying 1. . . . e5; so too in answer to 1. d4, Black is not obliged to respond 1. . . d5 immediately. Popular is 1. . . . Nf6, which may lead into several defences. Here is the King’s Indian Defence in which Black does not immediately challenge the centre.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
d4 |
Nf6 |
2. |
c4 |
g6 |
3. |
Nc3 |
Bg7 |
White prepares to take charge of the centre whilst the black bishop positions itself on the long diagonal.
4. |
e4 |
d6 |
5. |
f4 |
|
The Four Pawns’ Attack. This mass advance looks formidable but conversely it presents Black with a target. The advanced pawns are often difficult to defend and are thereby forced into further advances. 5. Nf3 is a more circumspect line for White.
5. |
. . . |
0-0 |
6. |
Nf3 |
c5! |
Striking at White’s d-pawn. If 7. dxc5 Qa5 threatening Nxe4 and Black’s development is excellent.
7. |
d5 |
e6 |
A further undermining of the advance. If 8. dxe6 Bxe6 followed by Nc6. Black has a backward d-pawn but plenty of freedom.
8. |
Be2 |
exd5 |
9. |
cxd5 |
|
Also playable is 9. exd5 when White relinquishes all idea of advancing the centre pawns.
9. |
. . . |
b5 |
Threatening 10. . . . b4 followed by Nxe4 when the white knight moves, yet apparently losing a pawn for nothing. But after 10. Bxb5 Nxe4 11. Nxe4 Qa5+ 12. Kf2 Qxb5 13. Nxd6 Qa6 14. Nxc8 Rxc8 Black has a good game and value for the pawn lost with the white king dangerously exposed (diagram 45).
In opening 1, several other defences to White’s initial e4, other than e5, were mentioned. One of these, the Sicilian, is a very popular choice for the fighting player; it meets thrust with thrust and counter-thrust with counter-thrust.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
e4 |
c5 |
Threatening to take off the d-pawn should it advance.
2. |
Nf3 |
d6 |
3. |
d4 |
cxd4 |
4. |
Nxd4 |
Nf6 |
5. |
Nc3 |
g6 |
Black prepares to fianchetto the king’s bishop – the Dragon variation.
6. |
Be2 |
Bg7 |
7. |
Be3 |
Nc6 |
8. |
0-0 |
0-0 |
9. |
Nb3 |
Be6 |
Both sides are now preparing to attack, White on the king’s side (notice the two bishops and the f-pawn poised for assault) and Black on the queen’s side (Black’s king’s bishop, although screened, is trained on White’s rook at a1).
10. |
f4 |
Attack!
10. |
. . . |
Na5 |
Counter-attack!
11. |
f5 |
Bc4 |
12. |
Nxa5 |
Bxe2 |
Not of course 12. . . . Qxa5 13. Bxc4.
13. |
Qxe2 |
Qxa5 |
14. |
g4 |
|
White flings caution to the winds. Should the attack fail and the majority of the pieces stay on the board, White’s king will be difficult to defend. A safer alternative was 14. Bd4.
14. |
. . . |
Nd7 |
Perhaps a better option was 14. . . . Rac8, planning to sacrifice the exchange on c3.
15. |
Nd5 |
So far, White has had most of the game and has a slight advantage in position, but Black has plenty of fight and, if White pauses, a reversal of fortunes is likely. It is on this razor-blade margin between success and failure that the appeal of the opening rests.
The French Defence is an ideal opening for the patient player. Black allows White to build up a strong pawn centre and then harasses it from the flanks. As in the Queen’s Gambit, Black’s chief worry is the development of the queen’s bishop which is imprisoned by the very first move.
|
White |
Black |
1. |
e4 |
e6 |
It is this move that gives the opening its name.
2. |
d4 |
d5 |
The almost invariable second moves.
3. |
e5 |
This advance is often delayed.
3. |
. . . |
c5 |
Hitting immediately at the support of the e-pawn.
4. |
c3 |
Nc6 |
Keeping up the pressure on White’s d-pawn.
5. |
Nf3 |
Qb6 |
6. |
Be2 |
cxd4 |
7. |
cxd4 |
Nge7 |
8. |
b3 |
|
White could also develop his queen’s knight here.
8. |
. . . |
Nf5 |
Black brings the second knight to bear on the d-pawn which has now been deprived of its pawn support.
9. |
Bb2 |
Bb4+ |
10. |
Kf1 |
|
The only move, for if a piece is interposed the d-pawn falls. An assessment of the position (diagram 47) reveals that White has so far maintained the pawn at e5, a powerful wedge in the centre. Black, however, still has three pieces trained on the weak d-pawn and has prevented White from castling whilst retaining a solid defence position. A factor in favour of White, and by no means obvious, is the mutual interference of the black bishop at b4 and the knight at f5. Both can be attacked by pawns and both would then best be placed at e7. White will now bring the king to g2 after advancing the g-pawn and may attack with almost equal facility on either side. Black will rely for defence on a sound position and the pressure on the d-pawn. Note that Black’s game is cramped and that the bishop at c8 is still undeveloped – two typical features of the French.
The examples given above are not arranged in any kind of order but they are generally representative of their respective openings and run the gamut from the patently aggressive (King’s Gambit) to the stolidly defensive (French Defence).
But how, the reader asks, am I to assimilate a seemingly endless string of variations, where the first slip may prove dangerous if not fatal?
Fortunately there is no need to learn more than one or two openings. For example, with the white pieces you will be able to play the English Opening (1. c4) with little fear of your opponent transposing it into another. As Black, in reply to 1. e4, the French, Sicilian or Caro-Kann are three good resources at your disposal, and you can specialize in one of these. After 1. d4, the Dutch Defence (1. . . . f5) is a way of circumventing a lot of opening theory.
If, on the other hand, you open 1. e4 yourself, your opponent will be able to choose a pet defence – a factor which will offset the advantage of the move.
However, the adoption of selective lines, based on personal preference of style should be left until you have acquired a thorough working knowledge of the theory of the game. Until you are reasonably sure of yourself, the advice offered earlier still applies: 1. e4 is the best opening move.
It is said that you cannot ride a horse properly until you have been thrown a few times. The same holds good for chess; more being learned from a few opening débâcles than this, or any other chapter could impart.
A short list of the openings commonly met with is given below in alphabetical order. In each example, try to visualize the central pawn structure, the development of the pieces and the strategical aims of each side. It sometimes happens that one opening transposes into another (for example, a Petroff becomes a Four Knights’). Artful transpositions have become a technique of modern master play.
Albin Counter-Gambit (1. d4 d5 2. c4, e5 followed after 3. dxe5 by 3. . . . d4). Black surrenders a pawn for the sake of quick development. Generally good for White.
Alekhine’s Defence (1. e4 Nf6). Black entices the white pawns to advance by offering the king’s knight as a target. Normally slightly favourable to White.
Benko Gambit (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5). A modern gambit which White usually accepts.
Benoni (1. d4 c5). A relatively recent addition to Black’s repertoire, more often seen in the form of the Modern Benoni (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4, c5).
Bird’s Opening (1. f4). An opening which will resemble a Dutch Defence with a move in hand if Black replies with 1. . . . d5.
Bishop’s Opening (1. e4 e5 2. Bc4). Can transpose into other openings such as the Giuoco Piano.
Budapest Defence (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e5). Black surrenders a pawn for a quick counter-attack. White usually gains a slight advantage if he avoids the resulting pitfalls.
Caro-Kann Defence (1. e4 c6). A popular defence to the king’s pawn, the Caro-Kann is sound but unambitious. It avoids the drawback of the French – shutting in of the queen’s bishop – but has other problems. Slightly favourable to White.
Catalan Opening (1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. g3). A relation of the Queen’s Gambit in which White fianchettoes his king’s bishop. Various move orders are possible.
Centre Game (1. e4 e5 2. d4). White relies on the initiative and breaks open the centre at once. Equal chances.
Colle System (1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. e3). A solid queen’s pawn game in which White develops quietly, aiming to play e4 later on. Black should be able to gain easy equality.
Danish Gambit (1. e4 e5 2. d4 exd4 3. c3). Followed, after 3. . . . dxc3 by 4. Bc4 cxb2 5. Bxb2. An offshoot of the Centre Game, the Danish gives White good chances in practice, at least at lower levels, despite the loss of the two gambit pawns, due to the free development obtained for the pieces.
Dutch Defence (1. d4 f5). Black aims at controlling e4. The game is usually close in the early stages. White has slightly the better of it as a rule.
English Opening (1. c4). In this opening, the fianchetto of the king’s bishop is normal for the first player. White is often playing the Sicilian Defence with a move in hand but Black has several good lines.
Evans Gambit (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. b4). The Evans offers White many compensations for the pawn; a strong centre, quick development and good attacking chances. The safest option, as is often the case with gambits, is for Black to give the pawn back at the right moment.
Four Knights’ Game (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 Nf6). A solid opening giving little advantage to the first player.
French Defence (1. e4 e6). A common reply to e4. Both players now advance their queens’ pawns when Black has a secure but rather restricted position. Popular with positional players who are content to work for an end game advantage. White usually plays for a king’s side attack.
Giuoco Piano (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5). A very old opening. Sharp attacks by either side are not uncommon. Equal game.
Grünfeld Defence (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5). After the usual 4. cxd5 Nxd5 5. e4 Nxc3 6. bxc3, Black aims to exploit the a1 – h8 diagonal on which White is weak.
King’s Gambit (1. e4 e5 2. f4). Once one of the most popular openings, the King’s Gambit is now played less often as White’s second move is considered too loosening. The gambit is the starting point of many adventurous lines: the Allgaier, Bishop’s Gambit, Kieseritzky, and Muzio are examples. The pawn offer may either be declined or accepted. In either case, Black has equal chances with correct play. The opening is highly tactical.
King’s Indian Attack. An opening in which White plays the moves Black commonly plays in the King’s Indian Defence (Nf3, g3, Bg2, d3, Nbd2, e4). Numerous move orders are possible.
King’s Indian Defence (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7). Now one of the most popular defences, giving Black good chances. White usually adopts one of two general systems: a large pawn centre with the king’s bishop posted at e2 or d3, or a less ambitious pawn advance with the bishop posted at g2. Black sometimes has difficulty in finding good squares for the minor pieces. Other openings such as the English and Réti can often transpose into the King’s Indian.
Modern Defence (1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7). A close relation of the Pirc and King’s Indian Defences. Black opens with a king’s side fianchetto and will later attack White’s centre with c5 or e5.
Nimzo-Indian Defence (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4). A popular and versatile defence, described at the equivalent of the Ruy Lopez in the Queen’s Pawn Game (q.v.). A game of strategic possibilities.
Nimzo-Larsen Attack (1. b3). As with most flank openings, White plans to control the centre by indirect play. Black should have no difficulty in equalizing.
Petroff’s Defence (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6). Black counterattacks at once. A sound reply to 1. e4, usually good for a draw with best play.
Philidor’s Defence (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6). White gets the more mobile game as Black’s king’s bishop is shut in.
Pirc (1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nf6). Aresilient but rather passive defence.
Queen’s Gambit Accepted (1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4). Black takes the gambit pawn, intending to return it later rather than hold onto it. This usually leads to more lively play than declining the gambit.
Queen’s Gambit Declined (1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6). This has been one of the most popular openings for more than a century, reaching the peak of its popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. Black achieves a solid position at the cost of hemming in his queen’s bishop.
Queen’s Indian Defence (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 b6 4. g3 Bb7). Black aims to control e4 and prevent the advance of White’s e-pawn. White prepares to face bishops on the diagonal.
Réti Opening (1. Nf3). Coupled with c4, g3 and Bg2, the aim is control of the centre without occupation in the hope that Black will set up a rigid pawn structure that will then be vulnerable to attack. A typical flank opening.
Ruy Lopez (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5). One of the oldest and most popular of openings, the Ruy abounds in complex strategical ideas in which the stronger player is likely to come out on top.
Scandinavian Defence or Centre Counter (1. e4 d5). Black immediately counters in the centre. Vigorous play, normally with some advantage to White.
Scotch (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4). After 3. . . . exd4 4. Nxd4, the Scotch Game, there are few terrors for the second player. White can instead give up the pawn with 4. Bc4, the Scotch Gambit, but Black should have no difficulty in withstanding the attack.
Sicilian Defence (1. e4 c5). Nowadays the most popular defence to 1. e4. Generally, White plays an early d4 whereupon Black exchanges pawns. Black then attempts to play d5 when it is safe to do so. Débâcles in this opening are not uncommon but results are evenly balanced.
Slav Defence (1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6), also the Semi-Slav (1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 e6). A resourceful and interesting defence to the Queen’s Gambit. The Meran System (which either side can avoid) is an exciting variant of the Semi-Slav offering equal chances.
Trompowsky Opening (1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5). An increasingly popular way for White to avoid theory. Usually leads to an equal game.
Two Knights’ Defence (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6). An alternative to the Giuoco Piano 3. . . . Bc5. Interesting play follows 4. Ng5 attacking the weak f-pawn. On the whole, chances are about even.
Vienna (1. e4 e5 2. Nc3). Gives a fairly equal game. After 2. . . . Nc6 3. f4, we have the Vienna Gambit, not dissimilar to the King’s Gambit.
