Santasiere's Folly arises after 1.Nf3 d5 2.b4. ECO code: A06.

History

Named after Anthony Santasiere (1904–1977), an American chess master and author who employed this unusual move. The name "Folly" reflects the dubious reputation of the early b4 advance.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White aims for queenside expansion and a fianchetto of the queen's bishop, combining Réti Opening ideas with the Polish Opening's queenside play. However, 2.b4 is premature—it does not challenge the centre and Black can exploit the advanced b-pawn with 2...e5, 2...Bf5, or simply 2...Nf6 followed by natural development. The opening is considered inferior for White.