Classical Approach
Control the center with pawns and pieces. Examples include the Ruy Lopez, Italian Game, and Queen's Gambit.
Key Idea: Dominate central squares (d4, d5, e4, e5) for increased mobility.
Key Points:
- Develop pieces towards the center
- Control the center with pawns
- Castle early for king safety
- Create a strong pawn structure
- Aim for long-term positional advantages
Hypermodern Approach
Control the center with pieces from a distance. Examples include King's Indian Defense, Grünfeld Defense, and Nimzo-Indian Defense.
Key Idea: Challenge the center without occupying it with pawns early on.
Key Points:
- Control the center with pieces rather than pawns
- Allow opponent to occupy center with pawns, then undermine them
- Develop pieces to flexible positions
- Use fianchettoed bishops for long-range control
- Employ dynamic piece play to create imbalances
Aggressive Tactics
Put immediate pressure on the opponent. Examples include King's Gambit, Sicilian Defense (Dragon variation), and Modern Defense.
Key Idea: Aim for quick tactical advantages and sharp positions.
Key Points:
- Sacrifice material for initiative or attack
- Create early threats to disrupt opponent's development
- Aim for open lines and diagonals for pieces
- Look for tactical opportunities from the opening
- Prioritize piece activity over material balance
Solid and Defensive
Build strong, resilient positions. Examples include Caro-Kann Defense and Slav Defense.
Key Idea: Focus on slower, more strategic battles with minimal risk.
Key Points:
- Create a solid pawn structure
- Avoid weaknesses in one's own position
- Develop pieces to safe, stable squares
- Aim for equality out of the opening
- Gradually improve position and wait for opponent's mistakes
Unorthodox and Creative
Use less common openings to surprise opponents. Examples include Bird's Opening, Orangutan (1. b4), and Grob Attack (1. g4).
Key Idea: Create unusual and dynamic positions to take opponents out of their comfort zones.
Key Points:
- Employ uncommon first moves to surprise opponents
- Create imbalances early in the game
- Force opponents to think independently from move one
- Exploit psychological factors by playing unfamiliar positions
- Be prepared for a wide range of possible responses