Flank openings begin with a move such as 1.c4, 1.Nf3 or 1.g3, fighting for the centre from the side instead of occupying it with e4 and d4.
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A flank opening attacks central squares from a distance and keeps the pawn structure flexible for longer. It can also transpose into other openings, on terms the first player chooses.
How to do it
- 1Aim pieces and the c-pawn at d5 and e5 rather than occupying them.
- 2Let the opponent commit their centre, then strike it with a pawn break.
- 3Know which openings your first move can transpose into.
For your level
Flank openings fight for the centre from the side. The c-pawn and a bishop on g2 do the work of a pawn on e4.
Common mistakes
- Playing on the wing while the opponent takes the whole centre and keeps it.
- Choosing a flank opening to avoid theory, then meeting the same positions by transposition.
Questions
- Is 1.c4 as good as 1.e4 or 1.d4?
- Yes. 1.c4 is a main first move at the highest level. It tends to lead to slower positions, which is a reason to choose it or not, never a reason to call it worse.