Go! by Gary Lane How to beat the Dutch with 1 Nf3? This is the question posed by Marin Thomas from England who has been trying numerous lines against the Dutch but with little success. He e-mailed to say, "I play 1 Nf3 but when they play the Dutch Defence how should I continue? I have played the risky 2 e4 which I like but don't trust. Which attacking opening should I play?" I think someone with experience with gambit lines should go for it by playing the Lisitsyn Gambit. This is a clever line which involves the sacrifice of a pawn and has been well known since the 1940s. It has enjoyed a recent surge of popularity with many elite players employing it, including on a couple of … [Read more...]
Openings in CC
by Bo Bredenhof Opening choice and preparation in OTB chess are important. The goal is to reach a known position that offers adequate chances, and, if lucky, the opponent goes astray somewhere. It also saves important reflection time. In CC opening choice is even more important. There are many openings that are suitable for OTB play, but are not strong enough in CC, and these should be avoided. There is no room for bluffs, sudden tactical traps, or playing on the clock. Gambits are mostly only good for draws. Ratings are also a consideration of course. In CC it is very hard to win a game. Our computer engine assistants are very strong and they tend to find a way to a draw even in … [Read more...]