French Defense

Originally posted by kmac27
you are a sicilian like i am. we prefer sharp tactical lines rather than closed games that have a lot more to do with strategy. when facing defenses that challlenge my center like that i have turned to the exchange variations. in the caro kann and in the french. try it out its a lot easier than being attacked all game.

i like scandinavian

Originally posted by kmac27
you are a sicilian like i am. we prefer sharp tactical lines rather than closed games that have a lot more to do with strategy. when facing defenses that challlenge my center like that i have turned to the exchange variations. in the caro kann and in the french. try it out its a lot easier than being attacked all game.

What about the Closed Sicilian? Sorry if I'm wrong, becuase frankly in all the OTB games I've played, the most common opening move I've faced is 1. a4 or 1. ... a4.

Plus the exchange variation of the Caro-Kann I think leaves White with a slightly inferior position, he's down a pawn in the centre.

Originally posted by MerchantParkPro
I think the fact that the list of Super GM's I gave: Adams, Ivanchuk, Svidler, Leko, Rublevsky, Akopian, Ponomariov, Kasparov, etc, (all of which much stronger and higher rated than Khalifman) all played 3.Nd2 recently, is proof enough that there is nothing "better" about 3.Nc3.

I think you misunderstand....maybe you dont play tournament chess? Nd2 is more drawish than a risky Nc3. Nd2 is playable but when people play it their aim in the game is different to those times they play Nc3. Ie last round of a tournament if you needed a win on the board to come first you would essay Nc3 if you just needed a draw then Nd2 might be the better option.

Originally posted by cmsMaster
Really, 3.e5? I wasn't expecting it to be that honestly, and it's a line that I have used before. Perhaps I should give it another chance, did they give any specific reasons for fearing this move the most?

I wasn't claiming it to be a scientific sample, just an impression I got. I think 3.e5 in the hands of strong positional players who like a spacial advantage in a closed position and are prepared for a long game can be slightly unpleasant for black, who may struggle to get activity. But it's not everyone's cup of tea!