The Jerome Gambit Opening Guide for White and Black

Jerome Gambit

The Jerome Gambit- what is there to say about this crazy opening?

It is quite possible that you have never heard of it. That is because it is a completely refuted opening, and has never been in fashion among top players. Does that mean you should not play it?

Scandinavian Defense – How to Play As White and Black

In many chess openings playing …e5 or …d5 is essential for achieving equality for Black. In light of this, the sooner black plays …d5, the better? You cannot play it sooner than the first move. The Scandinavian Defense (1.e4 d5), or Center Counter game as it is sometimes called, has been around since at least […]

The London System – Play the Opening as White & Black

The London System is a queen’s pawn opening without the usual 2.c4 move. This chess opening is suitable for players of all levels. The London System is an excellent way to avoid all the opening theory of the Queen’s Gambit (1.d4 d5 2.c4) since White continues with 2.Bf4 or 2.Nf3. Beginners will find it easier […]

The Dutch Defense – How to Play as White & Black

Dutch Defense

Quick Summary The Dutch Defense is an aggressive and ambitious opening that vies for control of the e4 square. It is usually played against 1.d4 but may be played against all main White openings, except for 1.e4. The Dutch has three main systems (the Leningrad, the Classical, and the Stonewall), which are all very theoretical […]

Sicilian Defense – Choosing the Right Variation for You

The Sicilian Defense in chess is the most played defense to 1.e4. Thanks to the asymmetrical position created on the first move, you can use it to play for a win with black. What you will discover, amongst other things: Why the Sicilian Defense is the most popular defense to 1.e4. Although some variations get […]

Grunfeld Defense – How to Play (as White & Black)

The dynamic, hypermodern Grunfeld Defense is arguably one of Black’s most aggressive defenses to 1.d4.  You cannot succeed with the Grunfeld Defense unless you are crystal clear about the strategies and resources available to both sides in this fantastic defense. The Exchange Variation is an extremely popular response for White against the Grunfeld Defense, and […]

Berlin Defense – How to Play Guide (for White & Black)

The Berlin Defense to the Ruy Lopez is one of the strongest defenses available to black.  Master the Berlin Defense endgame with black, and you will no longer need to feat the Ruy Lopez again. Additionally, you will find your improved endgame play helpful in many of your other chess games, no matter what the […]

Pirc Defense – How to Play (as White & Black)

Welcome to the dynamic, counter-punching Pirc Defense. A sound, fighting defense that will give you many enjoyable chess games. Gain a deeper understanding of this hypermodern opening by learning the ideas and strategies for both sides in the Pirc Defense. Arguably, White’s most aggressive option is the Austrian Attack (4.f4), but do not underestimate the […]

The Scotch Game – A How to Play Guide (for White and Black)

Quick Summary The Scotch Game is the third most popular opening arising from the King’s knight game (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6) after the Ruy Lopez and the Italian Game. It fights immediately for control of the center by directly undermining it with 3.d4, which gives a spatial advantage that may be used by both sides. […]

Chess Opening Basics: The Catalan Opening

The Catalan Opening is a dangerous, positional weapon for white that should not be underestimated. Becoming familiar with the main strategies in this opening will not only help you play it better but teach you a lot about controlling the center and power of the fianchettoed bishop.

Evans Gambit – How to Play as White and Black

The Evans Gambit has been played since 1827 and is still played by today’s strongest chess players. Read on to learn more about this powerful opening. The Evans Gambit is part of the Italian Opening and is one of the most aggressive choices at White’s disposal. Since it involves sacrificing a pawn and sometimes two […]