opening lines

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Avatar of BrockJamesStory
Is it more common to say the main line of an opening is the one played the most as seen in the explorer section of chess.com or would the main line of an opening be the top computer moves?
Avatar of blueemu

Neither one.

The main line of an opening is the line that has been played most often IN RECENT GRANDMASTER TOURNAMENTS.

This probably will NOT be the one listed as most often played in chess.com's explorer, because (a) it's chess.com, (b) that database includes mostly games between low-rated players, and (c) it includes games from all periods, not just recent Grandmaster tournament practise.

The definition of Main Line changes every few years, as new ideas are un-earthed.

Avatar of BrockJamesStory

Is there any good free sites that will have a better database?

 

Thank you, 

Avatar of blueemu

I use this as a reference:

Chess Opening Explorer - 365Chess.com