cool position!

no comment

thats the closed variation dude

I prefer Nf3 than c3

I use this often because it often takes the black player out of his/her preferred lines.

This is not my cup of tea, the problem with this opening for white is black can play nf6 or d5 both of which provoke white to play e5 which can be undermined later in the game.

It also leads to very boring positions not recomended for younger players who want to improve there tactics.

I am eager to learn more tactics and opening defense so that I

 may imrove my game. The sicilian defense I think is not so quite effective especially if you will challenge better player, particularly expert one.

A glance at the continuations database shows that Nc6 is absolutely dismal for black. Why is this? I ask because <ahem> I've played this more than once.

not good at all in my opinion, that pawn is blocking the knight from moving out! Knights are important in openings right??

Well Travkid, this is a good opening because White's next move will probably be d4 and after cxd4 cxd4, white has a full pawn center: controlling all the 4 squares in front of them. Also, this kind of center allows White to quickly develop his pieces and castle to safety.None of the bishops are obstucted by a pawn like in the french defence. White may also choose to play c4 first, before Nc3 so the c-pawn won't be blocked. The planned moves here are: (c4) Nc3 Nf3 Bb5(or Bc4), O-O Bf4 (or Bg5) and Qe2. Finally white's rooks are connected and they can move along the home rank. Most commonly occupied files: c d and e. Also, this opening prevents black from building up a full pawn center himself. Thus he will have to face problems like bad bishop or loss of territorry. With correct play, white should get the upper hand.

I don't understand why this opening is so great o.o Could someone please explain to me? lol

great opening! i love it

I love this opening.

Notice that according to the chess.com engines, when black plays the sicilian at c5, the top seven (!) most popular replies by white result in the following ranges:

(Approx)

Number of plays: 466,000 to 4000

White wins: 38% to 35%

Draw:  28% to 31%

Black wins:  33% to 42%

looks like it's an interesting variable game with opportunities and pitfalls for both players.  Probably why it's popular.

nice

I like this opening which is weird because I was always an anti Sicilian person. I always leaned more towards scandinavian openings.

it 's good.

this is a good opening for White, it gives an opening for the queen and she can be devastating to the black opponent. It's definetly a winner.

I like this one!

I think Nc3 would be better option ..ya e4 is my fav opening