Chapter 08 · Early intermediate · 5 min
Reacting to an unknown opening
Against an opening you do not know, return to basics: center, development, safe king. That keeps you in the game.
Explanation
When faced with the unknown, return to simple principles.
Is your opponent playing a weird move? Alright. No need to panic or invent an immediate punishment. Control the center, develop your pieces, protect your king and see if a direct threat exists.
Strange openings often win because the other player wants to refute them too quickly. Play healthy. If the opponent's move is really bad, good position will naturally show it.
To remember
Faced with the unknown: center, development, king in security, don't panic.
Classic error
Trying to punish a weird opening too quickly and creating weaknesses.
Player Tip
Simple, healthy moves often beat exotic openings among beginners.