Yeah, I could see Bg5 being better than Bf4, will concede that I hadn't thought of Bg5.
I ranked all 20 first moves for white.
Sort:
Opening theory is the least of my worries and next to non existent these days to me.
I prefer to spend my limited time on basic tactics training, middle game plans, ideas, strategies and end games.
And having fun.
e4 openings are more fun because they are more open, tactical positions. You don't need to learn so many lines of opening theory when you have the tactical instincts to play e4 openings.
Oct 21, 2023
0
#164
You need to know what to do against e5, c5 e6, and c6 as they are all common. Black also has several other moves white can easily get flustered against like the Nimzowitsch for example if white is unprepared:
Same thing with the Owens Defense:
There are others too, and that's not factoring in how hard it can be to get used to the more common responses. You need to know a decent amount of theory withe4 or you will struggle.
I will end with a quick mate white can easily fall for.
Yes, this sideline is what Igor recommended. It would eventually lead to an equal game by most human plays. Your 4. Bf4 is too timid imo.