Van't Kruijs Opening · A00
Bouncing Bishop Variation
1. e3 e5 2. Bc4 b5 3. Bb3
In the centre, Black holds e5.
The first 4 moves, explained
- 1. e3 Supports the centre, adding control of d4. Theory calls this the Van't Kruijs Opening.
- 1... e5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d4, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 2. Bc4 Develops the bishop to c4, eyeing d5. It eyes f7, the one square only the king defends.
- 2... b5 Puts the question to the bishop on c4 - retreat, trade, or be taken.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 5 in the Van't Kruijs Opening. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.