Opening Traps
Openings
Scholar’s Mate: The Best Opening for Beginners, Approved by Magnus Carlsen
In chess, most games last dozens of moves. But sometimes, if your opponent isn’t careful, you can win in just...
Openings
Muzio Gambit: The Most Dangerous Gambit in Chess (Full Guide)
Among the major opening lines in chess, few are as daring, or downright outrageous, as the Muzio Gambit and especially...
Openings
Who Still Uses the King’s Gambit?
The King’s Gambit: daring, romantic, and mostly… extinct? Not quite. While it’s no longer a staple in elite chess circles,...
Magnus Carlsen
How Magnus Carlsen Fell for the Englund Gambit
Magnus Carlsen once fell for a basic trap in the dubious Englund Gambit. He was 8½. Here’s how the world...
Openings
Haxo Gambit: The Scotch Trap That Devours the Unprepared
If you enjoy tactical chaos, early fireworks, and forcing your opponent to dance awkwardly around the board: say hello to...
Openings
9 Easy Traps in Mikenas Defense
The Mikenas Defense begins with the rare and flexible 1.d4 Nc6. While it may seem offbeat, this sideline contains hidden...
Openings
How to Defend Against Gambits in Chess
Discover essential methods to refute gambits in chess: accept or decline them wisely, master Morra and Najdorf Poisoned Pawn defenses, and...
Openings
Blackmar–Diemer Gambit and 15 Ways to Win
The Blackmar–Diemer Gambit (BDG) is a bold and controversial chess opening where White sacrifices a pawn for rapid development and attacking chances....
Openings
The Orangutan Opening: When Real Rebels Start with 1.b4
Among the many first moves in chess, few are as whimsical, eccentric, and surprisingly rich as 1.b4, a move known...
Openings
11 Tactical Traps and Pitfalls in the Grob Opening
This rare and unconventional opening The Grob, also known as the Spike Opening, is named after Swiss International Master Henry...
