Opening help - Lopez & Liver

Hi, i am new to the forums, and the site! I know some opening theory: Collie, Kings indian Attack&Defense, Fried Liver, Reti. But, i am stuck in a rut of playing the fried liver, i've tried learning the ruy lopez, but can't get to grips with it, any book suggestions? Also, I was wondering at what level i should stop playing the Fried Liver? I was hoping to move into 'better' openings to be played at higher levels and was wondering what openings i should be focussed on! 

(Sorry about the amount of questions)

Thanks, 

Patrick

Yeah you have to be prepared for someone who knows not to get into the Fried Liver, cos then black can sacrifice a pawn for activity.

Ruy or scotch is good, try the book: Easy guide to the Ruy Lopez by John Emms

If your opponents are letting you play the fried liver why stop? Hell, I would play the fried liver against anyone OTB rated 2000+ anyday! The problem starts when your opponents play good chess, and gambit a pawn with na5. Now you black is the one with the initiative.

Thanks for all fo your comments!

I have an idea of what to do against Na5, but i don't like Blacks chances to get out of the opening - i really want a nice solid opening that offers real chances for white!

I'd say the diagram shows equal chances for both sides.

If you want a small but easy edge against any opponent, I'd recommend the QGD Exchange variation. You get a slight structural advantage, and you don't need to know any theory past move 4 (although it definitely helps).

Oh dear, it hasn't worked! you were meant to see the mainline and non mainline moves of the fried liver, but it hasn't worked! oh well! I like the QGD, but prefer the Collie, although this apparently cant be played at the higher levels. Are there any good books on the middle game, and strategies for attacking?

The Colle system isn't played at the highest levels because it doesn't give White has trouble obtaining winning chances (if Black plays correctly - for the whole game). But White has a strong defensive structure using the reverse Semi-slav setup, and it shouldn't be a problem for you unless you're a 2200+ player who wants to avoid drawing with White.

As for books, The Art of Attack in Chess by Vladimir Vukovic is a great resource for learning to find attacking opportunities.

Doesn't really matter a ton what opening you chose as long as you understand the ideas behind it you should be fine. Sub-Master level any opening is good if you know it better than your opponent. So play the colle if you understand it, and I assure you it will not be "drawish".