Originally posted by sydsadIt's only any good as a surprise opening if you have a very strong middle/endgame that can compensate for weakening your KS so early on.
Very much so but that is besides the point: "Is it any good?"
The Gorb seems to be an energy boost for strong, divergent opinions.
Presumably "The Killer Grob" by Basman.
Its an average book, not much depth to it but some interesting ideas. It is good enough to get you started on the basic princples on the opening.
The alternative book "The Tactical Grob" by Bloodgood is probably better but more difficult to find. Walls book on the Grob is still in print although somewhat old. Basmans book has more general narrative explaining things compared to the other 2. I find it better at giving a general insight whilst the others are better on detail (but lacking explanations).
None of these books give the same depth of insight into the opening as you would get in a "normal" opening book but that is solely because the depth of theory does not exist. Depending on your view point that may be a good thing.
I would buy it and try out the Grob. OTB you will get some surprise wins.
Originally posted by Dragon FireIf you have ChessBase then try getting the eBook version of The Tactical Grob: http://www.chessville.com/downloads/misc_downloads.htm#TacticalGrob
Presumably "The Killer Grob" by Basman.
Its an average book, not much depth to it but some interesting ideas. It is good enough to get you started on the basic princples on the opening.
The alternative book "The Tactical Grob" by Bloodgood is probably better but more difficult to find. Walls book on the Grob is still in print although somewhat old. ...[text shortened]... a good thing.
I would buy it and try out the Grob. OTB you will get some surprise wins.
I haven't looked at this myself but found it yesterday when researching the claim that the 1992 New Zealand champion tried playing the grob or the borg every game in the 1993 championship and only achieved 50%. There may be an element of truth to this claim, as Anthony Ker, the winner of the New Zealand championship in 1990, 92, 93, 94, 2001, 02, 03 and 04, did play the grob on at least one occasion in the 1991 championship:
http://www.chessgames.com/perl/chessgame?gid=1450780
Originally posted by sydsadIn short no. Basman's advice would have lost to Keene in 14 moves.
I just found a copy for a few £ in a used book store in Sweden. Is it worth buying?
Basman had to change plans against Keene and still lost in 20 moves, Keenes friend made a bet with Keene who would win quicker if Basman tried the grob, Keene only won by 1 move.
Originally posted by HomerJSimpsonStop being so negative about the Grob.
In short no. Basman's advice would have lost to Keene in 14 moves.
Basman had to change plans against Keene and still lost in 20 moves, Keenes friend made a bet with Keene who would win quicker if Basman tried the grob, Keene only won by 1 move.
Move in our game so I can beat you otr are you too fearful as you know you are losing!
Edit: In gamesexplorer http://www.redhotpawn.com/gameanalysis/boardanalysisgm.php?gameid=90627
A win for white!
