I've been trying to decide what to play against d4. It's either the Slav or the Nimzo/QID (I've mostly played the Nimzo/QID), but I don't know which to play primarily as I like both. I looked through many games by strong players and it seems that the elite prefer the Nimzo/QID. Is this accurate? Also, is it really better objectively or does it offer more dynamic play and winning chances?
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- 21 Jun 06
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Some lines in the semi-slav are just crazy, way to complicated (hey that sounds like the sicilian main lines as well...). I feel you almost have to be a professional to play the main lines of the botvinnik variation, the lines are just to tactical and seem to have been generated only with computers and database-analysis. It just takes the fun from it as you don't understand it. Really complex.
I'm not sure I get this Slav vs Semi-Slav business. For example, I know many who play the Semi-Slav start with e6 first. Why not start with c6 and then play e6? Is the exchange variation in the Slav more drawish? Also, why even play the triangle formation locking in the Black bishop? Was something wrong with the original Slav; is this better?
You answered your own question for the first part: the exchange Slav is extraordinarily boring,so Semi-Slav players start with ..e6, so in the instance of cxd5, the pawn structure isn't symmetrical. For the second part, in the semi-slav, Black wants to play dxc4, b5, and c5, so blocking in the bishop is of no consequence, since it's gonna site pretty on b7.
Originally posted by !~TONY~!OK, that makes sense.
You answered your own question for the first part: the exchange Slav is extraordinarily boring,so Semi-Slav players start with ..e6, so in the instance of cxd5, the pawn structure isn't symmetrical. For the second part, in the semi-slav, Black wants to play dxc4, b5, and c5, so blocking in the bishop is of no consequence, since it's gonna site pretty on b7.
How do you think it compares to the Nimzo/QID in terms of winning chances and quality of positions? I want an opening that is completely sound but also dynamic and with good chances for a win, even as Black. (no more Maroczy binds for me!)
Originally posted by jovy1097It's still played, but I think holding up well is pushing it. Both Ne1 and b4 seem troublesome. Otherwise, I would consider it more. Unfortunately, even if I'm wrong, I just ordered a book on the Nimzo and another on the QID, so I doubt I will go KID anytime soon.
holding up very well in GM circles.