My rule of thumb is this:
If your pieces are out in front of your pawns its an open game;
if they are behind your pawns its a closed game.
Im sure someone else will explain it better in a while.
Open vs Closed
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If there has been pawn exchanges in the center, so that there are open files than it is an open game. If there have been no files opened than it is a closed game. If you want some examples of openings compare the open sicilian to the closed sicilian, and the open ruy to the closed ruy. You will see that the open variations tend to be more fast paced and tactical, while in the closed variations both sides usually take a slower maneuvering approach.
Jul 27, 2009
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#4
Files without pawns, bishops that own a lot of squares- those type of things make an open game. A closed game usually ends up with a big pawn lock-up and favors knights.
For instance, the center counter or Scandinavian would lead to a rather open game because files are cleared right from the get go. The Sicilian has open and closed variations, depending on the exchanges. I believe it's probably best for beginners to play open games because of the square control and tactical shots that are available. Once you get near 17 or 1800 the closed games start becoming a bit more fun. Just my opine, however. :)
open game = there is no pawn "wall" to block pieces.
closed game = at some part of the board pawns of both sides have interlocked to put up a "wall" which cannot be traversed by most pieces (except knights).
I've been playing now for about two years. I play pretty much only at chess.com. IMy favorite game to play is a game 30. My rating is slowly improving and is right now hanging out around the 1450 area.
I am STILL unclear as to what exactly constitutes an open and closed game. Would anyone be so kind as to attempt to explain this to me? Explain it, if you would, as if you were explaining it to someone that fits the previously mentioned stats.
Much thanks.