OPEN GAMES

OPEN GAMES

They start:

1. e2-e4    e7-e5

 WHITE SAYS:

You're expecting the Ruy Lopez? Tough. I'm going to play my favourite opening and see what you know about it. It could be anything from a wild gambit to a quiet line. You'll soon find out.

BLACK SAYS:

These openings really aren't so scary. I'm well prepared: I can reach at least an equal position

whichever one you choose. Go ahead and do your worst.

Most of these openings fall into one of three categories:

1. White plays for a central break with d4 (Scotch Game,Ponziani, most lines of Giuoco Piano and Two Knights).

 2. White plays for a central break with f4 (King's Gambit,most lines of the Vienna and Bishop's Opening).

3. White plays quietly with d3 (Giuoco Pianissimo, Spanish Four Knights).

We also look at some other defences for Black after 2.Ng1-f3, from safe defensive systems to sharp countergambits.

What should Black do next?

Ideas for White:

Adults will expect the Ruy Lopez while juniors are more used to this sort of opening.

So it's a good idea to play the Ruy Lopez against juniors, and, for example, the Giuoco Piano against adults.

Most of these openings lead to open positions. Rapid, effective development and King safety are the most important factors.

Don't play the Ng5 line against good opponents unless you really know what you're doing. They won't fall for the Fried Liver Attack: in many lines Black gives up a pawn or two for a dangerous initiative.

It's worth learning a good reply to the Latvian and Elephant Gambits: they're quite popular at club level.

Ideas for Black:

1. A lot of these lines are very dangerous against an unprepared opponent.

If you play 1... e5 you MUST have a good defence against ALL these openings.

2. In most of these openings the key move for Black to equalise is d7-d5. Go for it. Against gambits it's often worth returning the gambit pawn to play it.

3. There are several good ways for Black to avoid the Ruy Lopez. If you're looking for a safe, solid defence, consider the Petroff. If you don't mind taking a risk, try the Philidor with 3... f5.

4. If White opens the position with d4 or f4, rapid development and King safety are of paramount importance.

(to be continued)

Please use smaller font in your future posts.It is very annoying to have to keep scrolling down to read one sentence.just an oppinion.