The Amar Opening, also known as the Paris Opening, is an irregular chess opening defined by the move 1.Nh3. ECO code: A00.

History

The opening is named after Charles Amar (1898–1974), a Paris-based chess player of Indian origin who employed this move. It is sometimes called the Paris Opening after the city where Amar was active. The move develops a knight but places it on the rim—violating the classical precept that "a knight on the rim is dim."

Main Lines & Variations

Black's most natural responses are 1...d5 and 1...e5, occupying the centre. White typically plans to reroute the knight via Nf4 or Ng5, or to support a kingside fianchetto with g3 and Bg2.

The most notable sub-variation is the Amar Gambit (or Paris Gambit): 1.Nh3 d5 2.g3 e5 3.f4 Bxh3 4.Bxh3 exf4—White sacrifices the knight for dynamic compensation and open lines.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White aims for an unconventional setup, hoping to surprise the opponent and reach unfamiliar territory. The knight on h3 is objectively inferior to Nf3, as it lacks central influence and blocks the h-pawn. Black should respond with central occupation and natural development. The opening is considered one of the weaker first moves and has virtually no presence in serious tournament play.