openings
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
Caro–Kann Defense: Complete Guide with Key Lines for Both White and Black
The Caro–Kann Defense (1.e4 c6) is one of chess’s most respected shields against 1.e4. Favored by world champions from Capablanca...
Openings
Tired of 1…e5? 8 Semi-Open Defenses That Deserve More Respect
Surprise your opponents, avoid heavy theory, and rediscover offbeat defenses like Alekhine’s, the Pirc, and even the St. George. It...
Openings
Volga Gambit: How Black Sacrifices a Pawn to Strangle White on the Queenside
This Volga Gambit (also known as the Benko Gambit) is a beautiful demonstration of how Black can generate lasting queenside...
Openings
The Nimzo-Indian Defense: Positional Mastery with a Pin
The Nimzo-Indian Defense is one of the most respected openings in chess. Named after Aron Nimzowitsch, it blends classical control...
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
Vienna Gambit: The Forgotten Firestarter in 1.e4 e5 Openings
In the deep forest of 1.e4 e5 openings, the Vienna Gambit is a trail less trodden, but one that crackles...
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
Why the Giuoco Piano Still Catches Players Off Guard
Unpack the Giuoco Piano (Italian Opening), Two Knights’ Defense, and Scotch Game – classic 1.e4 e5 battles full of traps,...
