Queen's Pawn Opening
1.d4
The queen's pawn opening - 1.d4 - puts a pawn in the center, controlling the important e5-square, and opens the line for the Bc1. Compared to 1.e4, the queen's pawn opening is more suited towards long-term pressure and slower, more positional methods; although of course a sharp attack is also possible.
Pros:
- Gains space in the center with a pawn which cannot easily be challenged
- More long-term pressure
- Slower, more strategic buildup than 1.e4
Cons:
- Less chances of a direct attack
- Slower kingside development