Sicilian Counter - Alapin Variation

The Alapin Variation is a great opening for white defending against the sicilian. So tell me what you like about this opening, what you hate about it, main lines, counters, and games you've played.

chess.com vs. houdini

I like the constant attacking in the Alapin, that's why I play it.

And that the Alapin has a way of making playing against the Sicilian, seem like I'm playing against the the French.

good point and yeah I never really thought about it but after a few moves in it does seem to have a position that the french defense usually plays.

I played a much higher opponent last week and in chat during the game he said he "hates" when the Sicilian transposes into the French.

Game result 1/2-1/2 a draw.

true it is somewhat boring advlegitimate because both players are playing fairly defensive, but it's a pretty good strategy.

The Alapin can be very agressive.

Check this game out. 

oh yeah I know it can be aggressive I'm just saying it usually is defensive and nice game I like it.