Apocalypse Attack - Caro-Kann - Opening Theory

Tired of Facing the Caro-Kann?
Conquer it with the Explosive Apocalypse Attack! 

The Apocalypse Attack is a chess opening variation used against the Caro-Kann Defense.

that begins with the moves

 

 1.e4 c6   2.Nf3 d5   3.exd5 cxd5   4.Ne5.

 

This aggressive line aims to take the game out of traditional opening theory and force Caro-Kann players to navigate unfamiliar positions. 

 

Books - Courses (FREE) 

Short & Sweet: L'Ami's Caro-Kann -  Free Chessable Course - 25 Lines(1hr 18 Min Video) GM Erwin L'Ami (Apocalypse is last Variation in course)

---

Apocalypse Chess Articles 

Apocalypse Attack - GM Maria Petrov  (Opening Guide) - unique article on the Apocalypse Attack, where Grandmaster Marian Petrov’s expert review sets it apart from the rest. It’s not just another strategy guide; it’s a deep dive into transforming your approach to the Caro-Kann Defense, complete with practical play tips.

Short & Sweet Guide to 5 Caro-Kann Minor Sidelines - Chess Goals, (5th sideline is Apocalypse Attack) (Just basic how to play against it)

---

Apocalypse Attack LiChess Studies

Anti Caro-Kann Apocalypse Attack - 7 Chapter Study (Mostly all White Ideas)

35 Caro-Kann Defense Traps - 37 Chapter Study (28, 29 & 30 Are Apocalypse Attack Traps)

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

---

Puzzles 

LiChess Opening Puzzles

Caro-Kann Apocalypse Attack -  100 Puzzles

---

Apocalypse Attack Video Lessons

Quick Guide to the Caro-Kann Defense! || Apocalypse Attack Variation - 7 Min -  basic ideas of the "Caro-Kann Defense" chess opening on its "Apocalypse Attack Variation",

3 Caro Apocalypse TRAPS - 5 min - NM Jesse James - three opening traps in the Caro-Kann Defense, specifically the Apocalypse variation, which can lead to quick victories if the opponent is unaware. The video demonstrates how certain common moves can be exploited by white to gain a significant advantage or even deliver checkmate.

Apocalypse Attack Game Videos (W/ Annotations)

IM Hamed Nouri Outplayed FM David Elorta's Caro-Kann Using Apocalypse Attack. - 2 Min

  Bishops Bounty Caro-Kann Defense Page

Halasz - McDonnell Gambit: A Hidden Gem for White Players C21

Unleashing the Halasz Gambit
 A Chess Opening Full of Surprise

The Halasz Gambit is a chess opening marked by the move 3.f4?!
is a seldom-used Gambit dating back to the days of Romantic Chess and 19th century strategies.
 

Its origins can be traced back to at least 1840, but it gained prominence through the advocacy of Hungarian correspondence chess player Dr. György Halasz.

While the gambit appears questionable, it has yet to be conclusively refuted as it falls into the category of unexplored openings with aggressive play that leads to short games.

A Chess Opening with opening venom similar to the King's Gambit in strategy, the Halasz Gambit seeks to dominate the central squares and unsettle the opponent's central pawn.

The opening moves are:

1. e4 e5

2. d4 exd4

3. f4

---

Halasz Gambit Articles

Delve into the theory, history, and key variations of the Halasz Gambit.

• The Vampire Gambit: Can We Bury It Now? - Tim Harding Article -Is the Halász Gambit a dangerous weapon or a romantic relic? Analyzes example games featuring both victories and defeats for White. He discusses various refutations Black can employ and concludes by offering his own assessment of the gambit's viability. (Archived) (New - 6/9/2024)
  
  
• The Halasz Gambit 1.e4 e5 2.d4 exd4 3.f4 - Article Written by Clyde Nakamura for Chess Horizens back in 1996 - Talks about some of the dangers, But there are 11 Highly annotated games 
  
  
• Halasz Gambit: Chess Opening Guide (Main Line, Theory, History, and More) - Opening Guide - Chess Journal - This comprehensive guide dives into the Halasz Gambit, covering the main line, key variations, historical background, and strategies for both White and Black.
  
  
• Anatomy of a Gambit: Dissecting the Halasz - Old Chess Cafe Text Article - This in-depth article analyzes the Halasz Gambit, exploring its core ideas, potential pitfalls, and providing a rich collection of 42 games for further study.
  
  
• Unusual & Aggressive Chess Opening for White | Halasz Gambit - GM Igor Smirnov (w/Embedded Video) - Learn from Grandmaster Igor Smirnov in this video tutorial! He explores the unique and aggressive nature of the Halasz Gambit for White, making it a great resource for players seeking an edge.

Video Below Because it is Really well done and easy to follow chess tutorial.

---

Halasz Gambit LiChess Studies

Explore interactive training tools to solidify your understanding of the opening's concepts.

• Halasz - McDonnell Gambit -  17 Chapter Study - 12 Annotated games (Including some of Halasz) with others showing plans for Black.
  
  
• The Dangerously Underestimated Halasz Gambit - 6 Chapter Study - This comprehensive LiChess study, divided into 6 chapters, delves deep into the Halasz Gambit. It includes Interactive Quiz to test your knowledge, making it a great resource for players of all levels. (15 Hearts)
  
  

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move, perfect for testing your understanding and deepening your knowledge.

---

Game Databases: Explore Practical Applications

Refine your understanding of the Halasz Gambit by analyzing real chess games! Here, you'll find databases from popular chess websites:

365Chess.com

• C21: Halasz gambit 1. e4 e5 2. d4 exd4 3. f4 - 111 Games 

Chess Tempo

• Center Game, Halasz-McDonnell Gambit (C21) - 51 Games

---

Halasz Gambit Video Lessons

Learn from chess masters in video tutorials that explain the Halasz Gambit's key ideas and strategies.

Opening Strategy | The Secrets of Winning with 1.e4 e5 | Halasz Gambit - 30 Min - A comprehensive guide on how to counter common but suboptimal moves by opponents.

Random Guy Invents An Aggressive Gambit With 89% Win Rate! - 14 Min - GM Igor Smirnov (Video Up Above) - Learn about an unusual and aggressive chess opening gambit for White: the Halasz Gambit. It is believed to be named after Gyorgy Halasz, who played this opening in correspondence chess during the 1980s. Surprisingly, he won almost all the games he played with this opening.

---

Game Videos (W/ Analysis)

Blitz chess postmortem #740: Center game - Halasz gambit - 11 Min - Jim's Chess Channel - A look at the book line against this gambit, and check the rest of the game for improvements using a chess engine.

"In a gambit you give up a Pawn for the sake of getting a lost game."
 - Samuel Standige Boden

Slav Exchange Variation D10, D13 - D14 - Opening Theory

The Exchange Slav:
A Practical Guide for Black & White

Efficiency Meets Effectiveness

• Solid and playable position for Black with minimal effort.
• Unlock the full potential of this time-saving opening.
• Focus on mastering key strategic concepts.
• Curated resources to master this opening: articles, videos, and annotated games.

A Solid (But Not So Boring) Choice for Black

The Exchange Slav variation (1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. cxd5 cxd5) has a reputation for leading to quiet, balanced positions. Some Black players even consider it a bit "dull."

However, don't let that discourage you! While White does gain a slight advantage due to the extra tempo (move), Black ends up with a very playable and solid position. This makes the Exchange Slav a great choice for players who prefer a strategic approach, focusing on maneuvering and long-term plans rather than sharp tactics.

It's true that Black's winning chances are limited unless White gets overly ambitious. This is why some players choose the move order 2...e6 instead, which leads to the more dynamic Semi-Slav Defense.

But for those who enjoy a solid and strategic battle, the Exchange Slav offers a great opportunity to outplay your opponent.

Bishop's Bounty - Slav Defense Main Page

---

Books / Courses (FREE)

Free Chessable Courses

Short & Sweet: Classical Slav - 11 Line Course -  This course by Chessable covers the mainline Classical Slav (which can sometimes transpose into the Exchange Slav) and provides a solid foundation for understanding the ideas behind Black's play in these positions. While it only covers a few Exchange Slav lines specifically, the overall strategic concepts are very relevant.

---

Slav Exchange Variation  Articles

Delve deeper into the Exchange Slav with these informative articles:

The Slav Defense – How to Play It as White and Black - Chessable Blog Guide -This comprehensive guide from Chessable offers insights into playing the Slav Defense from both sides of the board. While it covers the broader Slav Defense, there's a dedicated section on the Exchange Slav variation within the Table of Contents.

Need Sure Points - QGD Exchange Slav - GM Nigel Davies Blog - Want a reliable way to secure draws? Look no further than GM Nigel Davies' analysis of the QGD (Queen's Gambit Declined) Exchange Slav (Archived Page)

When Repertoires Collide...(Barrish vs. Shankland, Exchange Slav) - GM Max Illingworth Article - The article discusses different approaches to the Slav Defence, comparing Barrish’s and Shankland’s recommendations, and includes detailed analysis of specific variations.

Attacking With The Exchange Slav!? - Coach Kane - Don't be fooled by the Exchange Slav's reputation for solidity! Coach Kane's article demonstrates how both sides can play for an advantage. This engaging piece explores attacking plans for Black, provides illustrative examples, and even includes puzzles to test your understanding.

---

Slav Exchange Variation LiChess Studies

Master Key Lines & Strategies: Explore thematic games, practice variations, and test your skills with these interactive Lichess studies focused on the Exchange Slav.

• Exchange Slav White Rep - 22 Chapter Study - This in-depth study by a Lichess user offers a comprehensive look at White's repertoire in the Exchange Slav. Packed with analysis for various lines, it's a valuable resource for players seeking to master White's strategic ideas.
  
  
• Exchange Slav: Thematic Games - 32 Chapter Study - This thematic study delves into practical games featuring the Exchange Slav, with a focus on games by legendary players like Vladimir Kramnik and Irina Krush. By studying these games, you can gain valuable insights into positional maneuvering and strategic concepts in the Exchange Slav.
  
  
• Exchange Slav 8/15: - 8 Chapter Study (All Games )
  
  
• Classical Slav - Exchange Variation - 38 Chapter Interactive Study - While titled "Classical Slav," this interactive study covers the Exchange Slav variation as well. It provides a great opportunity to practice key lines and test your understanding through interactive challenges.

New to Lichess studies?
These interactive tools allow you to explore chess concepts and variations move-by-move. You can test your understanding by making the moves yourself and receive feedback on your choices. They're a perfect way to deepen your knowledge and gain practical experience in the Exchange Slav.

---

Game Databases

Explore a wealth of Exchange Slav games to enhance your understanding and discover new ideas:

Chessgames.com

Queen's Gambit Declined Slav, Exchange Variation (D13) 1 d4 d5 2 c4 c6 3 Nf3 Nf6 4 cxd5 cxd5 - 1700 Games

Collections
Slav Defence - Exchange Variation - 12 Games (All White Wins)
White Opening Repertoire, Part 2: Exchange Slav - 11 games (All White wins or Draws)

365Chess.com

D10: Queen's Gambit Declined Slav defence, exchange variation 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. cxd5 - 11,000 Games

D13: Queen's Gambit Declined Slav, exchange variation 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. cxd5 cxd5 - 7225 Games

D14: Queen's Gambit Declined Slav, exchange variation, 6.Bf4 Bf5 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. cxd5 cxd5 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Bf4 Bf5 - 4930 games

---

Slav Exchange Variation Puzzles

LiChess Slav Defense Exchange Puzzles - 2005 Puzzles

Sharpen your tactical vision with puzzles specifically tailored to the Exchange Slav on Lichess. These puzzles will challenge you to identify key tactical opportunities that arise in typical Exchange Slav positions. By solving these puzzles, you'll not only improve your tactical awareness but also gain a better understanding of the strategic themes present in the Exchange Slav.

---

Slav Exchange Variation Video Lessons

Dive deeper into the Exchange Slav with these informative video lessons:

ChessGoals (Learn to Play The Slav Exchange - 13 Video playlist) - This comprehensive playlist by ChessGoals offers a variety of video lessons on the Exchange Slav.

EXCHANGE SLAV FREE FULL COURSE  -  4hr 40 Min - The Chess Lab  - comprehensive course on the Exchange Slav, is designed to equip d4 players with strategies against the Slav Defense. It emphasizes understanding middle game plans over memorizing moves, ensuring players can adapt to unexpected moves by opponents
(Exchange Theory , 11 GM Games , 3 Amateur Games , 9 of Authors Games , Conclusion) 

Slav Defense Theory: Exchange Variation - 20 Min - Hanging pawns - This video emphasizes the Exchange Slav as a powerful weapon for d4 players, offering a universally playable opening that can surprise well-prepared opponents.

The Slav Defense: Exchange Variation - 6 Min - Ben Finegold

Exchange 4.Bg5 Variation
-Explore a specific variation where White plays 4.Bg5, aiming for an advantage. Several resources offer in-depth analysis and strategic guidance for this line.

• Learn To Play AGAINST The Slav Defense | Opening For White | 3.cxd5 cxd5 4.Bg5!? Variation - 22 Min - Coach Kestony
• Slav Exchange 4.Bg5 - Realizing the Advantage - 20 Min - ChessGoals
• Slav Exchange 4.Bg5 Middlegame Plans - 18 Min - ChessGoals
• Slav Exchange 4.Bg5 Model Game - 10 Min - ChessGoals
• Slav Exchange 4.Bg5 Sample Game - 12 Min - ChessGoals

Basic Opening Chess Trap | Exchange Slav | The most common queen trap idea - 2 Min - Chessbase India


Slav Defense, Exchange Variation | Kids' Class - GM Varuzhan Akobian - 34 Min - St.Louis CC - Aimed at younger players, this Video Below by GM Akobian explores lines where White can fight for an advantage in the Exchange Slav. It also highlights common mistakes Black players should avoid.

---

Slav Exchange Games w/Analysis

Learn from the masters by analyzing annotated games featuring the Exchange Slav:

Chess Grandmaster vs 2075 Explained | Slav Exchange Variation - 14 Min - GM Benjamin Bok - Witness a Grandmaster dismantle a 2075-rated opponent in the Exchange Slav. GM Bok's explanations provide valuable insights into strategic decision-making and exploiting weaknesses.

Slav Defense, Exchange variation - Standard chess #44 - 50 Min - ChessNetwork - This in-depth video by ChessNetwork delves into a standard game featuring the Exchange Slav, offering a detailed breakdown of the opening, middlegame maneuvers, and endgame technique.

Crushing Wins from the "Boring" exchange Slav | Road to 2000 - NM Caleb Denby - 52 Min - St.Louis CC - Nice lecture

4.Bg5 Variation
Bg5 Slav Exchange with Alina Kashlinskaya - 9 Min - ChessGoals

IM John Bartholomew

Blitz Chess #364: IM Tetrarch vs. IM Bartholomew (Exchange Slav) - 26 Min - meet White's Exchange Slav in Smyslov's preferred fashion, 6...e6. Using the Exchange Slav as a Weapon | Climbing the Rating Ladder vs. 2210 - 56 min - The Exchange Slav (1.d5 d5 2.c4 c6 3.cxd5) is a line I've championed for several years on my channel, as it's a fantastic practical weapon for White. Blitz Chess #215: Johansson vs. IM Bartholomew (Exchange Slav) - 15 Min Blitz Chess #71: IM Krivonosov vs. IM Bartholomew (Exchange Slav) - 15 Min Blitz Chess #41: GM geheimpolizei vs. IM Bartholomew (Exchange Slav) - 5 Min

Unleash the Beast: Mastering the Sokolsky Opening (Polish or Orangutan)

"The beauty of a move lies not in its appearance but in the thought behind it."
 - Emanuel Lasker

 

Ideas of the Sokolsky Opening
 Surprise Your Opponent 

The Sokolsky Opening (1.b4),
also known as the Polish Opening or Orangutan Opening,
might be the perfect weapon to add to your arsenal!

This "offbeat" first move, where you push your pawn out two squares on the queenside (b-file), might seem unusual, but it has a hidden purpose.

 By playing 1.b4, you aim to:

• Control the queenside: This pawn move helps you claim space on that side of the board, giving you a strong foothold and potentially restricting your opponent's options.
• Fianchetto your dark-squared bishop: Later in the game, you'll likely develop your dark-squared bishop diagonally to a long diagonal (usually f2), giving it more attacking power.
• Prepare a kingside attack: The Sokolsky Opening aims to eventually launch a coordinated attack on your opponent's king on the other side of the board (kingside).

While not a common sight at the highest levels, the Sokolsky Opening has a surprising charm. Grandmasters like Magnus Carlsen and Boris Spassky have even dabbled in its unorthodox approach, showcasing its potential for surprise and strategic depth.

 Polish Opening Wikipedia Page

---

Polish Opening Chess Articles

Polish Opening Theory, History & Key Variations for Beginners & Advanced Players Explained!

• POLISH OPENING - Chess Pathway Article w/embedded Video - Beginner-friendly intro with video overview, covering basic lines and traps.
  
  
• Orangutan Opening: The Complete Guide - Chess Journal Opening Guide - In-depth exploration of history, variations, strategy, and move-by-move explanations. Highlights strengths & weaknesses.
  
  
• Play the Amazing Polish Opening - IM Alberto Chueca - Focuses on main lines, strategic plans, and illustrative games.
  
  
• The Polish Opening – Playing with the Orangutan  - (Chessable Blog): Explores general ideas and dives into the main line with an embedded video.
  
  
• Polish Opening - Chessdoctrine.com - Breakdown of main ideas, key theoretical lines, and common opening traps.

---

Polish Opening LiChess Studies

These Polish Opening (1.b4) studies offer a dynamic way to explore key concepts, variations, and famous games, perfect for both beginners and seasoned players.

• Polish Opening System - 5 Chapter Study  (149 hearts) - This basic overview provides a solid foundation for the Polish Opening, covering a few common defenses from Black
  
  
• Polish/Orangutan/Sokolsky Opening - 15 Chapter Study (28 hearts) - Dive deeper with 15 lines of opening repertoire, equipping you to handle various Black responses.
  
  
• Polish Opening (AKA Orangutan) -14 Chapter - Study the moves of the masters! This 14-chapter exploration features famous games played by Grandmasters.
  
  
• Orangutan Adventures - 21 Chapter - Embark on a 21-chapter journey through Orangutan games played at the Master level.
  
  
• Polish Opening Traps (Sokolsky Opening) Orangutan -  10 Chapter - Sharpen your tactical vision with 10 chapters focusing on common Polish Opening traps, all derived from miniature games.

New to Lichess studies? These interactive tools allow you to learn move-by-move, test your understanding by solving variations, and gain a deeper grasp of the Polish Opening's intricacies.

---

Games Databases

Delve into real-life chess battles featuring the Polish Opening (1.b4)! Analyze games played by masters and gain practical insights into how the opening unfolds.

365Chess.com

• A00: Polish (Sokolsky) opening 1. b4  - 6593 Games  -   Explore thousands of Polish Opening games, offering a vast landscape to study and learn from.

Chess tempo

• Polish Opening Games  - 1300 Games  - Focus on recent Polish Opening games, allowing you to see how the opening is played in the modern chess world.

365Chess.com

• A00: Polish (Sokolsky) opening 1. b4 - 6608 Games
  
  
• A00: Polish, Outflank variation 1. b4 c6 - 510 Games -  (For the curious) Dive deeper into a specific variation of the Polish Opening, the 1.b4 c6 Outflank Variation
  
  

---

Polish Opening Puzzles : Sharpen Your Orangutan Tactics!

These puzzles are specifically designed to challenge you with tactical motifs that arise frequently in the Polish Opening (1.b4).

LiChess Opening Puzzles

• Polish Opening Puzzles  - 2489 Puzzles - This massive collection throws a variety of Polish Opening positions at you, ensuring you encounter all the key variations.

Polish Opening Puzzle Variations

• Czech Defense   362 puzzles
• Bugayev Attack  147 puzzles
• King's Indian Variation  149 puzzles
  
• Outflank Variation       66 puzzles
  
• Baltic Defense           63 puzzles
  
• Schiffler-Sokolsky Variation   61 puzzles
  
• Bugayev Advance Variation     35 puzzles
  
• Birmingham Gambit             44 puzzles
  
  

---

Polish Opening (Orangutan) Chess Video Lessons

Expand your chess knowledge with a treasure trove of Polish Opening (1.b4) video lessons!

• Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Polish Opening / Orangutan Opening / Sokolsky Opening! - 22 Min - ChessGiant - A comprehensive guide by ChessGiant provides a solid foundation for the Polish Opening, highlighting its unconventional approach and surprising potential.
  
  
• Sokolsky/Polish Opening  - 12 Min - National Master Bryan Tillis shares his experiences playing against the Polish Opening, discussing common lines and strategic ideas.
  
  
• A Polish Opening Lesson from Hikaru, Trapped in Poland - 41 Min - (GM Hikaru Nakamura) Dive deep with Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura as he delivers a detailed lesson on the Polish Opening. He explores history, key concepts, and variations, drawing on his own games for illustrative purposes.
  
  
• Analyze This! | The Orangutan - GM Yasser Seirawan - 2014.03.11  - 44 Min - Join a chess class led by GM Yasser Seirawan, analyzing a game featuring the Orangutan Opening. Witness strategic discussions, move evaluations, and key moments dissected.

Blacks Repertoire vs. the Polish

• Chess Openings: Learn to Play 1. ...a5!? Against the Polish Opening / Orangutan Opening! - 11 min ChessGiant - Thinking outside the box? This video explores an unconventional response (1...a5) for Black against the Polish Opening.
  
  
• Chess Openings: Take Down The Orangutan with Black!! - 22 Min - IM Miodrag Perunovic - International Master Miodrag Perunovic equips you with strategies to counter the Orangutan as Black. He explores various approaches, including the Caro-Kann, King's Indian, and central pawn structures, catering to different playing styles.
  
  
• Reddit Opening Week 03 2016 Black vs 1 b4 Sokolsky Polish Orang Utan - 20 Min - Chessexplained - IM Christof Sielecki
  
  
• Live Session: Beating the Polish Opening  - 6 min - NM Bryan Tillis -National Master Bryan Tillis offers insights on facing the Polish Opening, providing suggestions for Black players in a live session.

Polish Opening Chess Traps

• Opening Traps in the Sokolsky / Orangutan / Polish Opening. #1 The Katalymov Trap - 11 min -  Sharpen your tactical vision with a look at the Katalymov Trap, a potential pitfall in the Tartakower Gambit variation.
  
  
• Chess Opening Trap: Polish (Sokolsky) Opening | Checkmate Pattern  - 2 Min -  Learn a quick checkmate pattern that can arise in the Polish Opening.

Polish Opening Game Videos (Analyzed)

The TRICKY Orangutan Opening and how to deal with it  - 10 Min IM Rosen -  I play the Orangutan (also known as the Polish) Opening beginning with 1.b4!? I played the first few moves in ultra-aggressive fashion and end up trapping my opponent before move 10.

Master of Preparation - 1.b4!! Anish vs Magnus - 14 Min

Orangutan Opening - Standard chess #24  - 49 Min   Chess Network

LIVE Blitz Chess Commentary #91: Polish (Sokolsky) Opening  - 13 Min  - Chess network

Bobby Fischer plays 1.b4!  - 7 Min  agadmantor

15 Min Chess #33 with Live Comments - Sokolsky Opening (Orang Utan 1.b4) - 27 Min IM Christof Sielecki
15 Min Chess #115 with Live Comments Orang Utan Sokolsky Opening - 35 Min IM Christof Sielecki

How To Win With 1.b4! In 17 Moves - Sokolsky vs. Strugatsch, 1958 - 10 Min - Miniature from 1958 where the Polish player, Sokolsky, uses 1.b4 to devastating effect as he sacrifices two bishops for a glorious attack!

ChessSchool

• Polish Opening: Chernyshov vs Lesiak - 6 Min - Miniature 1-0
• Polish Immortal: Glinksberg vs Miguel Najdorf - 5 Min - Miniature 0-1
• Polish Opening Has A Bait - 4 Min - Miniature 1-0

Reti Opening A04 - A09

 

Reti Opening Chess Resources

Wikipedia Page
The Réti Opening is a hypermodern chess opening whose "traditional" or "classic method" begins with the moves:

1. Nf3 d5   2. c4

BOOKS (Free)

Easy Guide to the Réti opening by Angus Dunnington -  130 Page PDF
The Modern Réti: An Anti-Slav Repertoire by Alexander Delchev - 216 Page PDF

Short & Sweet: The Réti  - FREE Chessable Course  - 22 Trainable Lines by IM Alkhatib 

Reti Opening Chess Articles

The Reti Opening: The Ultimate Chess Opening Guide -  Real Nice Guide from ichess.net  (Annotated Games, 3 Embedded Videos with over 1.5 hrs)
The Réti Opening  - another Guide by Simplify Chess, explains move by move
Réti Opening  - Guide by IM Alberto Cheuca

BLOGS

The Réti Opening: How to Play It as White and Black - Nice Guide on Chessable Blog

Nakamura's Secret Weapon Against the Réti Opening - Introduction (Part 1) - LiChess Blog Post
Nakamura's Secret Weapon Against the Réti Opening - The Ideal Center (Part 2) - LiChess Blog Post

Reti LICHESS Studies

The Reti Opening  -  23 Chapters  (296 Hearts)
COMPLETE GUIDE ON THE RETI - 16 Chapters   (63 Hearts)
RETI OPENING - 1.Nf3 - 10 Chapter Guide  (514 Hearts)
The Butcher Beats the Reti  -  10 Chapter Study (Playing against the Reti)

LiStudy  

Use Listudy to better memorize openings.
Play against your opening repertoire and learn them playfully and with scientifically effective methods.
Reti Studies- Mainline Variations  -  12 Lines to Practice and 3 Model games
Zukertort/Reti Opening Variations - 11 Lines to Practice

GAMES Databases

365Chess.com

A04: Reti opening 1. Nf3  -  316,000 Games
A05: Reti opening 1. Nf3 Nf6  - 143,000 Games
A06: Reti opening 1. Nf3 d5  - 86,000 Games
A07: Reti, King's Indian attack (Barcza system) 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 - 34,000 Games
A08: Reti, King's Indian attack 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c5 3. Bg2  - 3800 Games
A09: Reti opening 1. Nf3 d5 2. c4  - 19,500 Games

Chessgames.com

Reti Opening (A04-A06) - 80 Annotated Games
King's Indian Attack (A07) - 65 Annotated Games
King's Indian Attack (A08)  - 2 Annotated Games  
Reti Opening (A09)     - 7 Annotated games

Chess PUZZLES

Reti Opening, King's Indian Attack (ECO A07) -  14 Puzzles wtharvey.com

Reti Opening Video Lessons

GM Neiksans Boot Camp #12 - Reti Opening  - 1hr 45 min  Great Video
Réti Opening: Lecture by GM Ben Finegold - 50 Min  - GM Ben Finegold
Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Reti Opening / Reti Gambit!  - 16 Min Chess Giant
Reti Overview  - 14 Min   (Palm Beach Chess) NM Bryan Tillis

Reti Opening Mastermind with IM Milovan Ratkovic Part 1  - 24 Min

Reti Opening Mastermind with IM Milovan Ratkovic Part 2  - 25 Min

Reti Opening Masterclass: Typical Plans and Strategy for White - 27 Min IM Alex Banzea
Chess Opening: Reti Gambit  - 20 Min   thechesswebsite  (Way to mess with French defense Players)
Crush The French - The Reti Gambit! - 9 Min GM Denes Boros
Crush The French - The Reti Gambit II - 10 Min GM Denes Boros

Reti Chess Traps

Chess Opening Traps #10: Reti Opening Trap - 10 Min Kingcrusher
2 GMs fell for this trap in the Reti| Expert Aleksander Delchev speaks about his favourite opening - 21 Min

Reti Game Videos (w/Analysis)

Reti Opening  -  81 game Playlist  -  agadmator's Chess Channel
Reti - Chess Opening  - 60 Game Playlist  _ Kingcrusher   (Annotated famous games)
Reti Gambit - Chess Opening  - 16 game Playlist  - Kingcrusher   (Mostly Blitz games by him )
Reti  - 8 Game Playlist   - Chessbase india   (More Recent top level games)

Fischer Wins with the Reti | Kids' Class - GM Varuzhan Akobian  - 32 Min
Richard Réti & Judit Polgár Hypermodern Games | Games to Know by Heart - WGM Sabina Foisor -52 Min

100 Repertoires: Reti updates from my OTB tournament! - 33 Min - FM Nate Solon
( 4 Reti Games from His Tournament Win w/ Analysis )

IM John Bartholomew 

Standard Chess #6: DAG87001 vs. IM Bartholomew (Reti Opening) - 41 Min
Blitz Chess #392: IM Bartholomew vs. IM Carlo D'Amore (Reti Opening) - 18 Min
Blitz Chess #386: IM Bartholomew vs. IM Johann Echavarria (Reti Opening) - 16 min
Blitz Chess #180: FM Sagit vs. IM Bartholomew (Reti Opening) - 17 min
Blitz Chess #377: GM PROFESSORSMITH vs. IM Bartholomew (Reti Opening) - 25 min
Blitz Chess #410: IM Bartholomew vs. ansatsu (Reti Opening) - 13 Min
Blitz Chess #21: IM Pichot vs. IM Bartholomew (Reti Opening) - 9 Min

IM Greg Shahade

5 minute chess #47: Greg Shahade vs GM Emre Can - (Reti Opening) - 8 Min
5 minute chess #41: Greg Shahade vs IM Oleg Krivonosov - Reti Opening - 11 min
5 minute chess #49: Greg Shahade vs Z-Integrator (Reti Opening) - 12 Min
5 minute chess #74: IM Oleg Krivonosov vs IM Greg Shahade - Reti Opening - 9 Min

The Trompowsky Attack: A Complete Guide to White's Aggressive Weapon A45

"The aim of chess is not only to attack your opponent's king, but also to force him to defend badly." - Aron Nimzowitsch

The Trompowsky Attack
Unleash Chaos on your Opponent

Want to ditch complex opening theory and unleash aggressive, surprising play on your opponent?

Look no further than the Trompowsky Attack!

This exciting opening, played with the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5, offers White a unique path to victory:

• Disrupt Black's Development: White's early bishop development targets Black's knight, potentially forcing a trade that creates doubled pawns for Black. This disrupts their development and creates imbalances in the position.
  
  
• Fight for the Center: The Trompowsky often leads to dynamic positions where White can vie for control of the center and launch a quick attack.
  
  
• Sharp and Unpredictable: By bypassing common opening lines, the Trompowsky can throw your opponent off balance and create opportunities for tactical brilliance.

Whether you're a beginner seeking a dynamic weapon or an experienced player looking to surprise your rivals, the Trompowsky Attack can be a valuable addition to your chess arsenal. This comprehensive guide compiles the best resources to master the Trompowsky Attack, from articles and video lessons to puzzles and interactive studies.

Trompowsky Wikipedia Page

---

Books & Courses (Free)

FREE Chessable Courses

• Short & Sweet: The Trompowsky  - -23 Trainable variations w/59 Min Video - FM Kamil Plichta- Learn a full opening repertoire with 20 core lines and a 59-minute video guide. Perfect for beginners looking for a structured approach.
  
  
• Trompowsky Tactics  -  123 Chess Tactics you can train - 81 puzzles for White, and 42 for Black. Sharpen your tactical skills with puzzles specifically designed for the Trompowsky Attack, including variations for both White and Black from Chess Miniatures.
  
  
• Trample the Trompowsky  -   36 Variations to Learn and play against Trompowsky - This repertoire for Black recommends an easy-to-remember setup aimed at controlling the center (d5, c5) and exploiting opportunities where White delays or avoids capturing on f6.
  
  
• Short & Sweet: Pseudo Trompowsky -  30  Trainable Variations w/64 Min Video -Master the fundamentals of the Pseudo-Trompowsky, a related opening with similar ideas, in just a few hours through 30 core lines and a 64-minute video.

---

Trompowsky Chess Articles

This section dives into the Trompowsky Attack's rich history, key variations, and strategic ideas.

• Try the Dangerous Trompowsky Attack Today  -  Chessable Blog Guide (Very Detailed) Master the Trompowsky for White and Black with this in-depth guide - perfect for players of all levels.
  
  
• Trompowsky Attack -IM Alberto Chueca -Explore theory, strategic concepts, and typical plans for White with this comprehensive resource.
  
  
• Playing Against The Trompowsky: A Standard Response - WGM Raluca Sgîrcea, IM Renier Castellanos - Learn how to handle White's aggression with 3 different responses w/ game analysis to play against the Trompowsky.

---

Trompowsky LiChess Studies

Explore interactive training tools to solidify your understanding of the opening's concepts.

• The Trompowsky Attack - 7 Chapter Study (Detailed)  (189 Hearts) - 6 different 2nd Move Lines Explored.
  
  
• Trompowsky Attack  -  9 Chapter Interactive Study - This 9-chapter interactive study lets you explore different lines, from the engine line to different sidelines. (Test your understanding!)
  
  
• Lifetime Repertoire Trompowsky - 14 Chapter Study - (102 Hearts)Quickstart Guide  also featuring analysis and plans for 13 key Trompowsky lines.
  
  
• Trompowsky Attack: 2.. Ne4 - 7 Chapter Study  - This comprehensive 7-chapter study explores various lines, including the Main Line and responses to Black's 2...Ne4 (Edge, Bf4, Raptor variations). (Great for a deep dive!)

LiStudy Training Page 

(LiChess Movetrainer) - 

Sharpen your skills with training sets focused on specific Trompowsky Attack variations, including lines from Hanging Pawns and those inspired by GothamChess' 10-minute Trompowsky video. (For targeted practice!)

• Trompowsky Attack by Hanging Pawns  -  8 Lines To Practice here
  
  
• Trompowsky Attack  -  11 Lines to Practice here (Created from Gotham Chess 10 Min Trompowsky Video)
  
  
• Torre Attack Model games  - 8 games
  
  

New to Lichess studies? They are a fantastic way to learn chess concepts and variations move-by-move. You can test your understanding, explore different lines, and deepen your knowledge of the Trompowsky Attack at your own pace.

---

Trompowsky Puzzles

Test your tactical skills with puzzles specifically designed for the Trompowsky Attack.

LiChess Openings Puzzles:

• Trompowsky Attack - 2772 Puzzles  (All Variations): Dive into a massive pool of 2772 puzzles covering the entire spectrum of Trompowsky Attack variations. (For a comprehensive challenge)
  

Individual Variations:

• Trompowsky Attack: Classical Defense - 754 Puzzles
• Trompowsky Attack: Raptor Variation - 174 Puzzles
• Trompowsky Attack: Edge Variation - 172 Puzzles
• Trompowsky Attack: Borg Variation - 60 Puzzles

---

Games Databases

Examining real Trompowsky Attack games is a fantastic way to see how theory translates into practice. Here are some curated databases to get you started:

Chessgames.com (Collections)

• Black plays 2... d5 against Trompovsky  - Analyze 28 games where Black challenges White's bishop with an early pawn push.
• Defending against the Trompowski - Learn from Black's perspective with 8 games showcasing various defensive strategies.
• A45 Winning Games (White)  -  Explore 15 Trompowsky victories for White, seeing how they capitalized on the opening's advantages.
• General Trompowsky Games  - Browse 20 well-played Trompowsky games to gain a broad understanding of the opening's flow.
• Famous Trompowsky Attack Games   - Immerse yourself in 14 classic Trompowsky battles featuring renowned chess players.
  
  

ChessTempo.com

• Trompowsky Attack, General (A45) - 28,078 Games
• Trompowsky Attack, Raptor Variation (A45) - 1626 games

365chess.com

• A45: Trompovsky attack (Ruth, Opovcensky opening) 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5 - 28,300 games 
  
  

Tip: When using these databases, you can filter the games by player rating, year, and specific variations to target your learning goals.

---

Trompowsky Opening Video Lessons

Learn from chess masters in video tutorials that explain the Trompowsky key ideas and strategies.

Playlists

• Trompowsky - Opening Series  -  8 Video Series  -  90+ Min - Palm Beach Chess NM Bryan Tillis - This video series focuses on how to play the Trompowsky Attack for white.
• Trompowsky Attack Opening Theory  - 7 Video opening Series - 3.5 Hrs  - Hanging Pawns - Here you can find all ideas, plans and variations explained in detail for both white and black.

CRUSH People With The Trompowsky Attack!  - 34 Min  Gotham Chess - The Trompowsky Attack, a great opening for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players. Covering theory/strategy and games.

Chess Openings: Learn to Play the Trompowsky Attack! - 27 Min  The Chess Giant - In this beginners chess lesson, we hope to show that by playing this chess opening, you can improve at chess quickly and use chess opening tricks and traps to win games fast.

The Tromp-Wall Attack | Complete Guide - 46 Min   Chess Dojo -  A blueprint for playing the Tromp-Wall Attack, a hybrid system merging the Trompowsky & Stonewall openings.

Trompowski Attack: Typical Ideas for White  - 17 Min  Remote Chess Academy
The Trompowsky Attack Played by Julian Hodgson - 17 Min Remote Chess Academy


Vaganian Gambit - The Trompowsky Attack  - 32 Min  GM Boris Alterman

Starting Out: Trompowsky (1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5) - 6 Min - GM Max Illingworth - In-depth guide to the Trompowsky Attack. Strategies for white to gain a comfortable advantage by avoiding the King’s Indian Defense and creating double pawns for black. Various responses from black are discussed and emphasizes strategic play.

The Trompowsky Attack! IM John Watson on the basics of this opening - 38 Min - Watson explains the basics of the opening, its strategic content, and provides a repertoire for both inexperienced and advanced players.

Trompowsky - Levitsky Attack with IM Milovan Ratkovic - 33 Min

Black Vs. Trompowsky

• Easily Destroy Trompowsky Players!! - 42 Min  IM Miodrag Perunovic - A comprehensive guide on how to counter the Trompowsky Attack in chess, focusing on strategies with the black pieces
• How to Destroy Everyone with The Trompowsky Attack!! - 14 Min  IM Miodrag Perunovic - The aggressive h4 move, also known as the Raptor Attack, and highlights the achievements of Grandmaster Igor Miladinovic with this line.

GM Nadia Kosintseva

Variations that I am going to show you from the black's point of view are not the main lines, but still solid and, what's also good, do not require a lot of memorization on your side.

• Facing the Trompowsky and London Systems as Black 1 of 5 - 5 Min
  
• Facing the Trompowsky and London Systems as Black 2 of 5 - 5 Min
  
• Facing the Trompowsky and London Systems as Black 3 of 5 - 5 Min
  
• Facing the Trompowsky and London Systems as Black 4 of 5 - 5 Min
  
• Facing the Trompowsky and London Systems as Black 5 of 5  - 5 min

Trompowsky  Chess Traps

Trompowsky Levitsky Attack - The Levitsky Trap (trap no. 974) - 4 Min
Trompowsky Levitsky Attack - Baltic Hodgeson Levitsky Red Herring Trap (trap no. 975)- 3 Min
0978 Trompowsky - The Trompowsky Poison - 3 Min
0976 Trompowsky The Levitsky Sucker Blow - 3 Min
Trompowsky - Winning on Move 3 (trap no. 988) - 3 Min
Trompowsky - The Gallagher Trap (trap no. 977) - 3 Min
Basic Opening Chess Trap | Trompowsky | Punished for developing queen too soon! - 3 Min
Chess Trap 8 (Trompowsky Attack) - 5 Min
Trap in the 1...d5 Trompowsky - 5 Min

 

Trompowsky Game Videos (w/Analysis)

Playlists

• Trompowsky Attack   -  12 Video Playlist  - Games from Carlsen to Stockfish  - agadmator chess channel
  
• Trompowsky Attack   - 30 Videos  Playlist - Kingcrusher
  
• Trompowsky   - 8 Video Playlist   - Chessbase India
  

Grandmaster Simon Williams Plays Trompowsky Opening in Real Tournament  - 35 Min

Breaking Down The Trompowsky Attack | King's Indian | Top Theory Speedrun | GM Naroditsky - 33 min - He discusses various responses to the Trompowsky, emphasizing the move 1…d5 as an underrated but solid choice. Naroditsky plays through a game, explaining strategic concepts like the importance of controlling the center, the drawbacks of certain pawn moves, and how to exploit weaknesses in the opponent’s position.

Defeating an IM with the Trompowsky Attack! - 17 Min - GM Sipke Ernst analyses a game where he played the deadly Trompowsky Attack to defeat a strong International Master.