I started playing c4 a couple of month' ago but have no theoretical knowledge about it. Used opening databases.
But since I have to start somewhere with opening study, I ordered a book on the English (The Dynamic English : The aggresive player's guide to a traditional chess opening, by Tony Kosten).
Since the book has not arrived yet, I cannot give you any useful information right now, but maybe in a couple of weeks :-)
Adje
Try using the games explorer
www.chessatwork.com/gamesexplorer
You can then limit the games to a particular player. If you look at my games, I would be happy to answer questions, but I would look for a stronger player if I was you.
Edit: The english is all about controlling d5. I highly recommend The Dynamic English by Tony Kosten.
Originally posted by kmac27I think you'll find e4 is still the most popular. I almost exclusively play e4, c4 or d4 - the last two for variety. Your online resource on this site is http://www.redhotpawn.com/gamesexplorer/ - have a look at the +1900 games.
sounds pretty good i see a lot of higher rated players playing d4 and c4 and hardly ever e4 so i thought i'd see what all the fuss is about. i'm going to try and find some GM games online with them and see the kind of games they had but that would be nice to hear back after you know more about it.
Originally posted by buffalobillOf the major openings e4 is the least successful.
I think you'll find e4 is still the most popular. I almost exclusively play e4, c4 or d4 - the last two for variety. Your online resource on this site is http://www.redhotpawn.com/gamesexplorer/ - have a look at the +1900 games.
Originally posted by Diet CokeThats news to me, I thought he played the Reti....
User 91723
This user plays the English and he's OK.
Edit: looks like you're right. New study material for me!
http://www.chessatwork.com/gamesexplorer/index.php?movelist=c2c4&flip=0&co=w&u=91723&c=-1
Originally posted by kmac27There's nothing wrong with the English - but it's so different from 1.e4 - you'd be better off staying with 1.e4 and studying middle/endgames, but then again...CC ( and blitz) is the place to practice new openings.
so i want to try the c4 openings i have played d4 but want to get familiar with c4 openings players 1550 and above could you give me some of your games to look at and maybe explain some moves if you want to. thanks
kmac27
Originally posted by cmsMasterIndeed, I started my first serious 1. d4 game on this site today! 1.c4 is ok but not quite for me. 1. e4 also has some issues. Maybe I'll just play 1. Nc3 and not worry about theory at all.
There's nothing wrong with the English - but it's so different from 1.e4 - you'd be better off staying with 1.e4 and studying middle/endgames, but then again...CC ( and blitz) is the place to practice new openings.