I've played many OTB games using Kosten's recommendations and I've gotten perfectly good positions with little memorization required. Players very rarely have a systems mapped out vs. the english and especially vs. the 2.g3 move order so it's not like you're going to get outbooked. If black knows what he is doing he will probably equalize and then you play a game of chess, no big deal.
The dynamic english - Kosten
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Aug 5, 2009
0
#3
I found it very dificult for black first time second time dificult third time awkward forth time no probs patience is the key
May 21, 2013
0
#4
I've just started using it myself, and really enjoy it. I agree with ericmittens in that players rarely have a defense mapped out against the English. That's one of the reasons I started playing it. I especially enjoy the flexibility of the Botvinnik setup. I can take the attack to the queenside, or up the f file with great effect. The first time I played it, the victory was quite decisive. The second time took a bit longer.
Try it. You'll like it.
The problem with the English is that it can be complicated positionally and you may also end up neglecting your tactics. I ended up answering 1...e6 and 1...c6 with e4 like GM Miezes and I like to meet 1...c5 with a e3 and d4 plan. All this leads to more concrete positions with easier plans to follow with just about no theory necessary.
A usual position after something like 1.c4 c5 2.g3 g6 3.Bg2 Bg7 4.Nc3 Nc6 5.Nf3 Nf6 6.O-O O-O 7.d3 d6 isn't easy to play with.
Dear chesslovers,
I have beem playing 1. d4 and 2. c4 for the past 3 years. i find it hard to remember all the theory that comes with that.I am usually on my own after 6 to 8 moves while my opponents still trod down their own book and pet lines.
As a result my black wins-draws-lossess outperforms my white wins-draws-lossess - you can check out my stats at chess.com.
What do ppl think of the dynamic english by Tony Kosten? 1. c4 2. g3 3. Bg2 against black responses. If you play the lines recommended, what is the most problematic lines you ever face - what problems do you have when using his lines? On the ohter hand, what are the advantages of using his lines?
Should I make the switch?