How safe is this castled setup?

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Sjolden

Sjolden

How safe is this setup in a castled position? I have greatly enjoyed this setup in some of my KIA games. Are there any inherent weaknesses to this?

Sjolden

By the way, don't look at the above diagram as an actual game to be played out. My question is on the setup of the castled position only.

Alphastar18

Depends on the position.

Scarblac

Well, h3 is weak (not supported by another pawn, so is square f3. Once the bishop is exchanged it's all going to be a bit airy.

I don't think much more can be said in general terms only. Whether those weaknesses matter depends on the position.

Sjolden

I think you guys are absolutely right. It probably is best left undiscussed until we can see an actual in-game scenario. If I can come across a few, I will post them.

MyNames

I've had many games played with a setup exactly like that one. I doesn't look so good alone, but it is extremely durable and is a tough nut to crack

Sjolden

Deep breath there Rainbow. I'm looking for one of my recent games with this. I won my game as white with it, and it seemed pretty impregnable.

Sjolden

Notes on move 10.

moopster

This setup can cause major problems for white, as they have to often move the g pawn to keep the h pawn safe.

Sjolden

How safe would Kh2 be in that case?

Scarblac

Well, safer than g4 :-) I think Kh2 is the normal move in such cases.

Either way, h7-h5-h4 is in the air.

Sjolden

I was considering that blasted pawn push on the kingside to crack castled kings. Such an annoyance, but it is really rather dangerous and effective. I'm going to have to study these somewhat.

gumpty
the other main weakness in having you pawn on f2 g3 and h3, is the g3 pawn is not protected twice like it is with a pawn on h2. So you are vunerable to sacs on g3 if the a7-g1 diagonal is attacked by a black bishop.