Formation · A00

Hippopotamus Attack

1. a3 e5 2. b3 d5 3. c3 Nf6 4. d3 Nc6 5. e3 Bd6 6. f3 O-O 7. g3

In the centre, Black holds d5 and e5.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. a3 A useful waiting move that keeps the structure flexible on the a-file. Theory calls this the Anderssen's Opening.
• 1... e5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d4, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2. b3 Prepares the fianchetto: the bishop will take the long diagonal via b2.
• 2... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.

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