How to Defend Against Unusual Chess Openings

Some player may use unusual chess openings as a surprise weapon. Their goal is to pull you out of your comfort zone with something you may not be familiar with. However, you can usually obtain a good game by simply following a few basic opening principles. Here are some handy rules for sound opening play:

1. Place at least one pawn in the center of the board, and maybe even both center pawns when allowed.
2. Develop your pieces quickly, especially the ones necessary to prepare for castling.
3. Castle and connect your rooks.
4. Place your pieces where they have the most activity, and try to put at least one rook on an open file.

Let's look at how two World Champions used these basic ideas when confronted with the same unorthodox chess opening: