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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

Stonewall Dutch Defense A92 - A95

 

Mastering the Stonewall Dutch
 Strategic Insights

Dive into the strategic world of the Stonewall Dutch, renowned for its solidity and flexibility.

 Discover articles, studies, and videos to master this dynamic opening, favored by players for its ability to dictate the pace of the game and create imbalanced positions, offering opportunities for both attacking and defensive play.

Bishop's Bounty Stonewall Pawn Structure Page 

Bishops Bounty Main Dutch Defense Page 

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Stonewall Dutch Articles

• How To Play The Stonewall Dutch - GM Bryan Smith - Chess.com Article
  
  
• The Dutch Stonewall - Exeter Chess Club - booklet for Juniors
  
  
• The Stonewall Dutch, a fighting repertoire against 1.d4 - Theoretical Article w/ 9 Games, Talks about Amateur Moves, GM Plans, Move order Tricks.
  
  
• Behind the Stonewall you should never lose - Chessbase Article - Renowned theoretician and Dutch expert Viktor Moskalenko shows that Black also does well against line-ups without d2-d4 (English or Reti). He explains the ideas of these systems.

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Stonewall Dutch LiChess Studies

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

• Stonewall Dutch Defense - 7 Chapter Interactive Study (521 Hearts) - Lessons on Pawn structure, w/ 3 main Plans , all Interactive.
  
  
• The Dutch and Anti-Dutch Systems - 6 Chapter Study (901 Hearts) Study at Top of Page - Different Types of Dutch and Anti-Dutch gambits
  

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Games Databases

Analyze real-life games featuring the Stonewall Dutch and see how it's played in practice.

Chess365.com

A92: Dutch, stonewall variation 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 e6 4. Bg2 Be7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d5 - 1032 Games
A93: Dutch, stonewall, Botvinnik variation 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 e6 4. Bg2 Be7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d5 7. b3 - 561 Games
A94: Dutch, stonewall with Ba3 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 e6 4. Bg2 Be7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d5 7. b3 c6 8. Ba3 - 424 Games
A95: Dutch, stonewall with Nc3 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 e6 4. Bg2 Be7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d5 7. Nc3 c6 - 776 Games

Chess Tempo

Dutch Defense, Stonewall Variation, Modern Variation (A90) - 2920 Games
Dutch Defense, Stonewall Variation, General Variation (A92) - 353 Games
Dutch Defense, Classical Variation, Stonewall Variation (A93) - 361 Games
Dutch Defense, Classical Variation, Stonewall Variation (A94) - 437 Games
Dutch Defense, Classical Variation, Stonewall Variation (A95) - 769 Games
Dutch Defense, Modern Stonewall Variation (A97) - 2133 Games

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Stonewall Dutch Puzzles & Tactics

WTHarvey.com

Dutch, Stonewall, Botvinnik Var. (ECO A93) - 10 Puzzles
Dutch, Stonewall with Ba3 (ECO A94) - 10 Puzzles
Dutch, Stonewall (ECO A95) - 10 Puzzles

LiChess Opening Puzzles

Dutch Defense : Stonewall Variation - 43 Puzzles
 

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Stonewall Dutch Video Lessons

Dutch Stonewall Defense - 16 Video Playlist - (Over 10 Hrs) - japanesetutor (Think these videos might be Lessons from a book)

Stonewall Dutch IM Andrew Martin - 1hr 41 Min - Acomprehensive guide to the Stonewall Dutch opening in chess. He emphasizes the need for a stable, economic, and effective opening repertoire that is easy to learn and play.

The Stonewall Dutch · Chess Openings - 34 Min - Hanging pawns - Emphasizes the importance of understanding plans over memorizing theory, as the Stonewall Dutch is characterized by its pawn structure and strategic ideas for both sides. He discusses the key pawn formation (f5, e6, d5, c6), its strengths and weaknesses, and various plans for developing pieces, particularly the problematic light-squared bishop for Black.

Dutch Defense | Stonewall Attack!! - 23 Min - IM Miodrag Perunovic - A comprehensive guide on the Dutch Defense, focusing on the Stonewall variation and how to effectively attack with it when playing as black

Ultra-Modern Dutch Stonewall | Fight The Catalan Without Fear!! - 41 Min - IM Miodrag Perunovic - In-depth exploration of the Ultra-Modern Dutch Stonewall, a chess opening strategy designed to combat the Catalan opening. It highlights the effectiveness of the Stonewall Dutch against the Catalan

Stonewall Dutch for chess beginners (explained) - 14 Min - Bad Bishop Chess Channel - Intro to the Stonewall Dutch Defense - a solid opening choice for Black against 1. d4 (but also works well against 1. c4 and 1. Nf3). The main ideas and logic behind the opening, mainly from Black's perspective. Focus is on the pawn structure and ideas dependent on the structure.

Anti-Stonewall

Break the Stonewall Dutch - 9 Min - NM Bryan Tillis - In this game, chessable author NM Tillis breaks down a key concept in facing the Stonewall Dutch.

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Stonewall Dutch Game Videos (w/ Analysis)

Aman's Stonewall Speedrun - 19 Video playlist - GM Aman Hambelton - 400-2200 Elo playing Stonewall w/ White and Black. 


Chess Stream #72 Fresh Ideas in the Stonewall Dutch - 28 Min - GM Simon Williams - featuring insightful ideas and in-depth analysis of two games.

Reykjavik Open: Facing an Indian Prodigy, Raunak Sadhwani, with the Stonewall Dutch Opening. Round 5 - 27 Min - GM Simon Williams

Play the Stonewall Dutch like Stockfish - 9 Min - ChessGoals

Exciting Dutch Stonewall | Analyze This! - GM Maurice Ashley - 48 Min - Maurice Ashley analyzes members' games. (New 6/24/2024)

Opening Basics #33: Dutch defense - Classical and Stonewall variations - 23 Min - Jim's Chess Channel - I continue my look at the Dutch defense with the Classical and Stonewall variations, which were prominently featured in the 1951 world championship match. 3 Games Bronstein vs. Botvinnik

kingscrusher (Games with well done game analysis )

• World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen plays the Dutch Stonewall Defence against Vishy Anand! - 18 min - kingscrusher
• World Chess Champion: Magnus Carlsen plays the Dutch Stonewall Defence against Fabiano Caruana! - 17 Min - kingscrusher
• Amazing Tartakower Immortal game - Geza Maroczy vs Savielly Tartakower - 1922 - Dutch Stonewall - 14 Min - kingscrusher
• Dutch Stonewall Chess Opening: Stockfish 6 vs Leela Chess ID 467 : Time Limit : 1/20 - 14 Min -kingscrusher
• Outrageous Dutch Defence ‼ || Radoslaw Wojtaszek vs Simon Kim Williams aka "Ginger GM" - 14 Min -kingscrusher
  

THE POLISH IMMORTAL |
 Gluecksberg vs Najdorf. A beautiful game of chess - a cascade of sacrifices! 
 11 Min - GM Daniel King
Game Video Below

Master the Leningrad Dutch Defense: A Comprehensive Guide to A81, A87-A89

"Behind the imposing walls lies a cunning defense."
- unknown

Unlock Black's Winning Chances
A Deep Dive into the Leningrad Dutch

The Leningrad Dutch Defense is an aggressive and tactical choice for Black, involving fianchettoing the king’s bishop and controlling the center with pawns on d6 and e6. This opening allows Black to launch a counterattack on White’s position, often leading to sharp and complex games.

• Control the center with dynamic pawn structures.
• Create opportunities for a powerful kingside attack.
• Challenge your opponent with lesser-known lines.

Dive into the ultimate collection of resources to master the Leningrad Dutch Defense, from in-depth articles and LiChess studies to comprehensive video lessons and puzzles.
Bishop's Bounty Dutch Defense Page - Link Here

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Leningrad Dutch Articles

• Leningrad Dutch: Complete Guide - IM Zaur Tekeyev - Chessworld (W/33 Min Embedded Video) General look at the Main Line, Model game and an example of how White trys to refute the Leningrad Dutch.
  
  
• Chess Opening Basics: The Leningrad Dutch Defense - Chessable Blog Guide - Get a solid foundation in the Leningrad Dutch  with this introductory guide from the Chessable Blog. This article offers a general overview of the opening's ideas and themes, perfect for beginners looking to add this dynamic defense to their repertoire.
  
  
• Leningrad Dutch by GM Magesh and GM Arun - Sharpen your tactical vision with two annotated games featuring the Leningrad Dutch on Chess.com. Gain insights from Grandmaster-level analysis and see how to exploit opportunities arising from this aggressive opening.
  
  

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Leningrad LiChess Studies

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

• Leningrad Dutch - Complete Repertoire - 32 Chapter Study (55 Hearts) -Created by Shreksify, this comprehensive study covers main lines, sidelines, and the Polar Bear System. It includes 10 model games and detailed lessons for various variations, making it an excellent resource for in-depth learning.
  
  
• Leningrad Dutch - 12 Chapter Study (225 Hearts) - Authored by Rnugteren, this popular study focuses on mainlines, sidelines, and gambits with detailed explanations. It’s highly rated by the community and provides a thorough exploration of the Leningrad Dutch.
  
  
• The Leningrad Dutch - 8 Chapter Interactive Study - Created by pandolf, this interactive study offers detailed discussions on plans for different scenarios. It’s designed to help players understand the strategic ideas behind the Leningrad Dutch through interactive learning.
  
  

These studies provide a structured and interactive way to master the Leningrad Dutch Defense, catering to different learning preferences and levels of detail.

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Chess Databases

Analyze real-life games featuring the Leningrad Dutch and see how it's played in practice.

365Chess.com

• A81: Dutch, Leningrad, Basman system 1. d4 f5 2. g3 g6 3. Bg2 Bg7 4. Nf3 c6 5. O-O Nh6 - 9 Games
  
  
• A81: Dutch, Leningrad, Karlsbad variation 1. d4 f5 2. g3 g6 3. Bg2 Bg7 4. Nh3 - 99 games
  
  
• A87: Dutch, Leningrad, main variation 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. Nf3 - 3208 Games
  
  
• A88: Dutch, Leningrad, main variation with c6 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d6 7. Nc3 c6 - 3632 Games
  
  
• A89: Dutch, Leningrad, main variation with Nc6 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. Nf3 O-O 6. O-O d6 7. Nc3 Nc6 - 2959 Games

Chess Tempo

• Dutch Defense, Semi-Leningrad Variation (A81) - 6597 Games
• Dutch Defense, Leningrad Variation (A87) - 2240 Games
• Dutch Defense, Leningrad Variation, Warsaw Variation (A88) - 4895 Games
• Dutch Defense, Leningrad Variation, Matulovic Variation (A89) - 3409 Games

Chessgames.com (Collections)

• Leningrad rampage - 14 games (Where White is blown off the board)
• Leningrad Dutch - 27 Games (Bunch of Nakamura games here)
• White wins Dutch Leningrad (A88) (elo>2500) - 7 Games
• Black Wins Dutch Leningrad (A88) (elo>2500) - 8 games

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Leningrad Dutch Tactics Puzzles

Test your tactical skills with puzzles specifically designed for the Leningrad Dutch.

LiChess Opening Puzzles

• DUTCH DEFENSE: LENINGRAD VARIATION - 126 Puzzles

WTHarvey.com

• Dutch, Leningrad, Main Variation (ECO A87) - 25 Puzzles
• Dutch, Leningrad, Main Var. w/...c6 (ECO A88) - 24 Puzzles 
• Dutch, Leningrad, Main Var. w/Nc6 (ECO A89) - 24 Puzzles

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Leningrad Dutch Video Lessons 

This section equips you with a variety of video resources to master the Leningrad Dutch, a dynamic and aggressive opening for Black.

• GM Neiksans Boot Camp #9 - Dutch Defense for Black -  2.5 Hrs - Dive deep into the Leningrad Dutch with GM Neiksans. This extensive boot camp covers unorthodox positions, attacking strategies, and dynamic play. Perfect for players looking to enhance their tactical prowess and understanding of the Leningrad system.
  
  
• The Leningrad Dutch · Chess Openings - 54 Min - Hanging Pawns - Focuses on the theoretical aspects of the Leningrad Dutch. It provides a thorough breakdown of key plans and variations, making it ideal for players who want to build a solid theoretical foundation..
  
  
• Opening Basics #34: Dutch defense - Leningrad variation - 35 Min - Jim's Chess Channel - Offers a strategic exploration of the Leningrad Dutch, analyzing games played by grandmasters. This video is great for understanding the practical application of strategies in real games.
  
  
• Svitlana's Smart Moves - How to play the Leningrad Dutch Defence - 22 Min - ChessBase - Practical tips and strategic advice for playing the Leningrad Dutch. This concise video is perfect for players looking for quick, actionable insights to improve their game.

St.Louis Chess Club

• Learn the Leningrad Dutch Part 1: 7...Nc6 | Chess Openings Explained- 48 Min - Jonathan Schrantz from St. Louis Chess Club delves into the 7...Nc6 branch of the Leningrad Dutch. This video is part one of a series, offering detailed analysis and explanations of this specific variation.
   
• Learn the Leningrad Dutch Part 2: 7...c6 | Chess Openings Explained - 40 Min - In part two, Jonathan Schrantz continues his exploration of the Leningrad Dutch, focusing on the 7...c6 branch. This video provides in-depth coverage of another critical variation, making it a must-watch for serious students of the opening. 

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Leningrad Dutch Games (w/Analysis)

This section equips you with a variety of video resources to master the Leningrad Dutch, a dynamic and aggressive opening for Black.

Dutch Defence: Leningrad - 28 Video playlist - kingscrusher - Kingscrusher offers a comprehensive playlist featuring assorted games, from famous encounters to his own. This series provides a wide range of examples and in-depth analysis.

Your Chess Analyzed #6 | Leningrad Dutch Attack - 13 Min - GM Moulthun Le - Analyzes a viewer's game, highlighting a powerful kingside attack from Black in the Leningrad Dutch. This video is excellent for learning practical attacking techniques.

GM Chess Analysis #46 My first Leningrad Dutch! Ravi vs Williams - 21 Min - GM Simon Williams shares his first experience playing the Leningrad Dutch against Indian International Master Ravi. This personal account provides valuable insights and practical tips.

Dutch Defense, Leningrad - Standard chess #2 - 40 Min - ChessNetwork - After playing, I briefly review the game using the Stockfish chess engine.

The Fall of Leningrad | Tal vs Botvinnik 1960. | Game 19 - 16 Min - Agadmator (Classic Game) - Agadmator analyzes the classic game between Tal and Botvinnik from the 1960 World Championship. This historic match showcases the Leningrad Dutch in a high-stakes setting, offering timeless lessons.

The Alien Gambit: A Guide to Shocking Your Opponent in the Caro-Kann

Dare to Defy
Conquering the Caro-Kann with the Alien Gambit

Do the solid walls of the Caro-Kann Defense leave you yearning to crack the code?

  Do you crave an opening that throws Caro-Kann aficionados into disarray? Then embrace the Alien Gambit, a gambit so audacious it seems to have arrived from another planet!

This post equips you with a treasure trove of free resources to conquer the board with this aggressive approach. Whether you're a seasoned player seeking to expand your repertoire or a curious beginner yearning for an exciting gambit, dive into the world of the Alien Gambit and surprise your opponents!

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LiChess Studies

New to LiChess studies? These interactive tools are your secret weapon for mastering the Alien Gambit! Unlike traditional chess books, studies let you explore concepts and variations move-by-move, testing your understanding and solidifying your knowledge.

Here's a selection of free Alien Gambit studies on LiChess to get you started:

• Caro-Kann: Targetting f7 (Caro-Kane and Alien Gambit) - 12 Chapter Study Delve into variations and key ideas for both the Caro-Kane and the Alien Gambit.
  
  
• Alien Gambit Study: Alien Gambit Study - 12 Chapter Study (w/ 4 Games) - Master the move order and explore different lines in this comprehensive study.
  
  
• The Alien Gambit - 10 Chapter study - Learn valuable lessons with an interactive final chapter to test your skills.

For Black Players:

• COUNTER the Alien Gambit - 3 Chapter Study - A straightforward guide on how to combat the Alien Gambit as Black.
  
  
• Surviving the Alien Gambit: - 10 Chapter Study -Explore lines to play as Black, including potential pitfalls for White.

What is a LiChess study?

LiChess studies offer an interactive way to learn chess concepts through step-by-step analysis and quizzes. Take your chess learning to the next level! You can find more details about LiChess studies here: Study Chess The LiChess Way

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Alien Gambit Video Lessons

Crush EVERYONE with the Alien Gambit! - 33 Min - IM Gotham Chess - This tutorial delves into the gambit's backstory, explains its core concepts, and showcases its effectiveness through live games.

Learn the Alien Gambit with Hikaru!! - 57 Min - GM Nakamura - Take a deep dive with a chess legend! This in-depth lesson unveils the Alien Gambit's secrets.

Alien Gambit Bonjour: Lecture by GM Ben Finegold - 46 Min - explores the gambit's origins, development, and practical applications.


Witty_Aliens MasterClass:

• Mastering The Alien Gambit 👽 | Tips & Tricks - 34 Min - Witty_Alien - dissects the gambit, sharing personal experiences and highlighting its impressive win rate. Expect detailed game explanations.
  
  
• The Difference Between Alien Gambit & Caro Kane Variation 👽‼️ - 21 Min  - Witty_Alien - Confused about the distinctions? This video clarifies the differences between these variations.
  
  
• The Gambit That Shocked The Chess World - Alien Gambit - 22 min - Witty_Alien - Witness how the Alien Gambit has surprised opponents! This video focuses on practical play and the importance of active pieces.
  
  
• All Alien Gambit Brilliants And Tricks ‼️👽 - 20 Min - Witty_Alien -Prepare to be amazed! This video showcases brilliant moves and tactical tricks associated with the Alien Gambit.

Black vs. Alien Gambit

• CRUSH the Alien Gambit | Easiest Beginner Guide - 4 Min (Well done Video, easy to Understand) - A beginner-friendly guide for Black players, equipping you with the tools to dismantle the Alien Gambit.
  
  
• Levy Rozman VS Russian School of Chess: ALIEN GAMBIT REFUTED! - 17 Min - WGM Dina Belenkiya - Titled Tuesday Game -  Learn from a titled player! Watch this game analysis to discover refutation strategies.
  
  
• How to CRUSH EVERYONE who uses Gothamchess Alien Gambit! - 6 Min -  ChessGoals -This video guides you through a game, highlighting key moves and strategies to counter the gambit.
  
  
• R.I.P. Alien Gambit (4/3/2024) - 10 Min - IM Alex Banzea - Don't be fooled by the title! This video offers Black players basic ideas to refute the gambit without memorizing specific lines.

Alien Gambit Game Videos (w/Analysis)

• I Unknowingly Faced the ALIEN GAMBIT - 16 Min - IM Eric Rosen
• The Alien Gambit is TOO STRONG - 6 Min - IM Eric Rosen
• Stockfish Played ALIEN GAMBIT Against An Alien Today in Chess.com | Stockfish Vs Alien| Chess Gambit - 7 Min
• PERFECT Game With The Alien Gambit - 9 Min - Gotham Chess
• Alien Gambit ONLY Match With WGM Nemo 👽 | Full Match - 1.5 hr - 14 game match

 “I think the surest sign that there is intelligent life out there in the universe is that none of it has tried to contact us.”

Bishops Bounty Caro-Kann Defense Page