openings

The Orangutan Opening: When Real Rebels Start with 1.b4

The Orangutan Opening: When Real Rebels Start with 1.b4

NM
June 15, 2025

Among the many first moves in chess, few are as whimsical, eccentric, and surprisingly rich as 1.b4, a move known...

11 Tactical Traps and Pitfalls in the Grob Opening

11 Tactical Traps and Pitfalls in the Grob Opening

NM
June 5, 2025

This rare and unconventional opening The Grob, also known as the Spike Opening, is named after Swiss International Master Henry...

Building an Opening Repertoire: The Complete Guide

Building an Opening Repertoire: The Complete Guide

XB
June 5, 2025

In This Article When it comes to mastering chess openings, there’s no single road to follow, only paths paved by...

Evans Gambit: The Opening that Gives a 60% Chance to Win

Evans Gambit: The Opening that Gives a 60% Chance to Win

XB
May 16, 2025

The Evans Gambit is a line in the Italian Game (Giuoco Piano), where White plays 4.b4, sacrificing a pawn. If...

Exploring the Mikenas Defense: A Surprise Weapon in Chess

XB
April 18, 2025

Chess players love finding hidden tricks to catch opponents off guard. One such tricky opening is the Mikenas Defense (also called the...

Saragossa Opening: A Simple Guide to Chess’s Hidden Gem

Saragossa Opening: A Simple Guide to Chess’s Hidden Gem

NM
April 13, 2025

Chess openings set the tone for the entire game. While most players use popular openings like the Ruy Lopez or...

1.d4: The Great Mystery of Counterplay (And How to Crack It)

1.d4: The Great Mystery of Counterplay (And How to Crack It)

NM
February 11, 2025

Ah, 1.d4—the opening that whispers, “I’m here for a strategic, positional grind, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”...

The 10 Most Popular Opening Moves in Chess, Ranked From ‘Why?’ to ‘Wow!’

The 10 Most Popular Opening Moves in Chess, Ranked From ‘Why?’ to ‘Wow!’

NM
December 6, 2024

Chess openings are a lot like pizza toppings, as there are plenty to choose from, but only a few are...

The Cow Opening and How to Play

The Cow Opening and How to Play

XB
March 19, 2024

What's the deal with everyone discussing the Cow Opening? This article will delve into its origins, its creator, and how to employ it effectively.

Alien Gambit: The Hottest Trend in Chess

Alien Gambit: The Hottest Trend in Chess

XB
February 14, 2024

Roughly 100,000 games have been played using the Alien Gambit just in January 2024. Many Grandmasters are falling victim to it. Why has it become a hot trend in chess?