Why very less people play KIA if it is that popular?
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Somewhere I have heard that King's Indian Attack is better opening for beginners as well as for those who want to play strategically. Also, Bobby Fischer used to play it against many GMs and thus made this opening very popular.
But I didn't come across any player on chess.com who have ever had played it with me. Mostly play e4, d4, c4. I don't see people play KIA that much.
Any reason to this, or am I thinking too much? [Actually I wanted to learn this opening but seeing many people don't play it I myself finding a little lethargy to give time on this opening.]
Jun 2, 2020
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#2
I know at least a friend or two who plays it, but I don't think KIA is super popular. It is usually very "strategic" as you say (or at least takes knowledge of positional ideas), so I think this discourages many beginners from playing it.
By far the most popular first moves are 1. e4 and 1. d4 among beginners and strong players alike. I will note though, KIA is not the same as 1. Nf3 (Reti) because that is only the first move. KIA can arise from transposition from 1. Nf3, 1. c4, 1. d4, 1. e4 and many other moves.
I think the KIA is a solid opening, but I don't see many players playing it regularly either.