Blitz strategy

I usually play for tactics but will occassionally set out to play a purely prophylactic game, or as close as I can muster. This got me to thinking: assuming you could play equally well either way, which would be the best strategy for blitz - playing like Karpov or playing like Tal?

In 3 0 games, I aim for deep positional struggles. as my intuitive board sense usually prevails.

Quote: "...playing like Karpov or playing like Tal."

If I only I could play like either.

I've won a few blitz tournaments in my time.
I move fast and attack because perfect defending takes time.

Originally posted by greenpawn34
Quote: "...playing like Karpov or playing like Tal."

If I only I could play like either.

I've won a few blitz tournaments in my time.
I move fast and attack because perfect defending takes time.

It depends on position - some positions are easier to defend.

If yo are white - a slow sqeeze quite often is beneficial, as black will struggle to find a good plan in a short space of time.

As black - it is usually best to open the game up as early as possible - to give yourself equal chances and help to wear their time down

Originally posted by Korch
It depends on position - some positions are easier to defend.

Not when I attack them they aint!!

Most players do not know how to defend themselves.

It's not their fault - 99% of tactical puzzles are white/black
to play and win. Not white/black to play and defend.

Originally posted by greenpawn34
Not when I attack them they aint!!

Most players do not know how to defend themselves.

It's not their fault - 99% of tactical puzzles are white/black
to play and win. Not white/black to play and defend.

I think it is closer to 97%

Originally posted by hunterknox
I usually play for tactics but will occassionally set out to play a purely prophylactic game, or as close as I can muster. This got me to thinking: assuming you could play equally well either way, which would be the best strategy for blitz - playing like Karpov or playing like Tal?

I think this depends on the style of the player. Personally, I'm prone to tactical "oops", so I seem to be better off playing positions that give my opponent as few tactical chances as possible.

However, natural tacticians seem to be better off playing less well-traveled openings that allow tactical shots if things start to go wrong.

smoke and mirrors

Originally posted by Wulebgr
I think it is closer to 97%

Actually, it's exactly 98.386427%