Learning e4 openings as black…
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Jan 4, 2026
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#24
fraserhm wrote:
I do like theory, in moderation of course though. I played the caro cann and didn’t like it, I feel with how much I play chess learning the Sicilian will give me benefit in the long run if it’s almost 50% of the games I play. I also don’t have to know all the theory yet of course, I’m only in the 1400-1500 range so my opponents won’t either, just knowing the basics and staying solid with the principles I’ve learnt. I just don’t love playing e5 if I’m honest. I also don’t like the Scandinavian, and playing the Sicilian, it seems pretty fun and more to my liking. Just wondering how I should learn my theory.
Hi!
Against 1.e4, picking a single Sicilian line and learning its typical structures and plans will take you much further than trying to memorize long sequences of moves. I know it from experience: 1…c5 is one of my favourite replies to 1.e4 — even if it’s not the one I’ve been playing most often here lately.
If you ever want help picking a line that fits your style and building a simple study path for it, feel free to reach out.
Best,
maafernan -- Chess.com Coach
Jan 4, 2026
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#25
The Sicilian Najdorf is my own favorite.
Here are a few of my Najdorf games with Black:
Jan 4, 2026
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#26
Najdorf is what I have been playing against the main line. @maafernan I do think I just need to pick what responses I will do, then analysis will help me learn what I did right or wrong in the opening.
Jan 4, 2026
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#27
blueemu wrote:
The Sicilian Najdorf is my own favorite.
Here are a few of my Najdorf games with Black:
I am not ashamed to admit that these games have served as my inspiration to go for the Sicilian Defense. Especially the Najdorf.
In fact, here's the game that got me to 1200. It was a pretty normal game until my opponent got a bit too greedy, and a beautiful combination followed!
Jan 14, 2026
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#28
I tried this opening out and won 11 games in a row, but not all of them were with this opening
Jan 16, 2026
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#29
PhantomRevenant wrote:
another useless e4. e5. no wonder you're so terrible at this game. Why don't you just quit instead. That would make us all happier.
rev·er·ent
/ˈrev(ə)rənt/
adjective
feeling or showing deep and solemn respect.
Phantom Reverant ... perfect name for you (an invisible Reverant) since you completely lack decency.
Jan 16, 2026
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#30
You can either play 1 e5, or I prefer d6
d6 is the pirc, very solid, and undermines the center. You should try it. Don't use it for long games like rapid
Jan 18, 2026
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#31
tf0ch wrote:
You can either play 1 e5, or I prefer d6
d6 is the pirc, very solid, and undermines the center. You should try it. Don't use it for long games like rapid
Why not? I only play rapid really
Jan 18, 2026
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#32
I don't believe in playing half-open defenses, so I answer 1.e4 e5, my usual defense is the Petrov's Defense, but not always. I would strongly advise the OP to try the Petrov's for 30-50 games and see if it appeals to him; it has something for everyone.
Jan 18, 2026
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#33
badger_song wrote:
I don't believe in playing half-open defenses, so I answer 1.e4 e5, my usual defense is the Petrov's Defense, but not always. I would strongly advise the OP to try the Petrov's for 30-50 games and see if it appeals to him; it has something for everyone.
I’m not sure how crazy I am about the petrov
As an e5 player, I recommend the two knights. It’s positional and solid without having lots of theory or being super slow.
I am pretty good at two knights, but if they go for knights I’m done for.