Discover the personality and tactics behind every major chess opening. Learn structure, variation names, common traps, and practical gameplans — all with a fun and accessible approach.
Student Reviews for A Fun Lover's Guide to the Major Chess Openings
Overall Course Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (248 ratings)
Hamilton S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This Chess course is truly unique in its emphasis on tactical methodology. While I tend to play a more defensive game, this course has opened up a new dimension to my chess thinking. The instructor not only covers reacting to your opponent's moves; he also discusses proactively creating tactical opportunities while teaching the underlying principles that make them work. The course examines and reviews significant chess games. The explanations were clear and I found myself genuinely excited to learn more. A truly rewarding deep dive into the world of Chess.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind words and great enthusiasm for the course. Much appreciated :) Cheers, Tryfon
David B. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An excellent and comprehensive guide to many openings, strong main lines, and pitfalls to watch for from both sides of the board! Tremendous historical example games with concise and insightful discussion. Notable discussion of gambits to sharpen tactical play. My chess has improved along the way, and I will undoubtedly revisit this course multiple times!
Instructor Response
Thank you so much for your kind and enthusiastic comments. Great to hear about your chess improving. Best wishes, Tryfon
Daniel C. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Excellent. I've become more proficient with minor pieces like knights & bishops and improved my tactics as well.
Instructor Response
Great stuff - Cheers, Tryfon
Manuel T. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
KingsCrusher is the best!! (Hope I wrote it correctly :) ) It’s the second course I follow from his library and it is extremely insightful, based on exercises you can do yourself and spend time thinking about so ultimately really learning about chess! You can also see and feel his passion for the game. Very empathic and likeable, you want to have 5’oclock tea with KingsCrusher :)
Instructor Response
Thank you so much for your kind and enthusiastic review :) Best wishes, K
David S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a great course - Kingscrusher is a really good teacher. Key points for me: it is nice to see discussion of a large variety of openings and within those openings, detailed commentary about individual moves. So often you learn an opening without understanding what each move really does. This course makes you think about knights preventing pawn moves, pawn moves blocking in a bishop, etc. Most crucially, it helped me rediscover the fun of chess after a long break. I now enjoy the game more and see improvement.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind and enthusiastic review; I am so happy to have helped reignite your passion for the game. Cheers, Tryfon
Simon B. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A great course for getting a grasp of the landscape of openings, systems and gambits. Highly recommended.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your positive and enthusiastic feedback :) Cheers, K
Christophe P. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Complet!
Dylan O. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I think that this course is absolutely amazing and helpful. I know you said that it is a work in progress so I got a few fun gambits you could add: Nakhmanson Gambit, From's Gambit, and this last one is a meme opening "intercontinental ballistic missile gambit". You are doing a great job, keep up the good work!
David O. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a fabulous course. Superb teaching style and very instructive with great depth and insight. I'm 61 and have only been playing chess for 6 months and this guy has fueled my newly developed love for this magnificent game. Thank you Kingscrusher!
Instructor Response
Thank you so much for your kind words and enthusiasm :) Best wishes, K
Fabian G. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You are the man! Thank you so much for sharing your learnings and excitement about chess.
Pratik Shrikant P. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Just Awesome!
Ethan L. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This course is just what I needed to develop my chess opening knowledge, and to reinforce good habits through following the basic principles. I am also grateful for the awesome teacher that Kingscrusher is.
Instructor Response
Thank you so much for your kind comments and review :) Cheers, Tryfon
Don S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am a club player who struggles to get out of the opening successfully, but I also prefer having fun over winning. This course really meets my needs; I don't expect to play in tournaments much and I have no hopes of becoming a terrific chess player. I just want to enjoy myself. The addition of PGN files in Section 12 is most welcome and adds even more enjoyment for me. I might even win a few more games as a result of taking this course. I watch as many lessons as I can find time for, so it may take a very long time to complete the course. It makes a very good supplement to my other reading, viewing and playing (online and in-person chess).
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind and enthusiastic review :) Cheers, Tryfon
Blase A. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spent a lot of time on open philosophies. I wanted to get into just the moves. But an understanding of his philosophies is key to guiding one's opening.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for understanding the need for philosophies more which for me do provide guidance for the vastness of chess and so I do think principles and philosophies are important to try and convey. Best wishes, Tryfon
Richard B. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I like that the focus is on keeping Chess fun, by developing your pieces, finding 'your' style. Learning the 'rules', and when to break the rules.
Thomas G. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Excellent course for learning a little about the major openings.
Subash Chandra B. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Always 5 star for Mr.Trifon Gavriel. Love his videos.
Instructor Response
Many thanks :) - Cheers, Tryfon
Ahmad H. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Very Informative and detailed analysis of each opening/position. Highly recommend King Crusher Courses.
Kurt ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Really great course on openings that is both fun and educational. I love the way the course is structured. Definitely recommend!
Instructor Response
Many thanks :) Cheers, K
Planck ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It is an amazing course, I recommend beginners and also intermediate players to take this course. The instructor, Kingcrusher is an amazing teacher, kudos to him...
David Ramos D. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Philosophy and anthropology for thinking chess. Just what I needed. And all via a critical and self-friendly reflection of the tutor's vast and deep experience.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind and enthusiastic comments :) Cheers, Tryfon
Sergio M. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
No chess lesson is going to be as easy to watch on a smartphone than it is on a computer screen. So, it is not easy for me to see it, but the quality of the course makes up for the minor nuisance of seeing it on a small screen.
Instructor Response
Thank you for your kind comments and review. Cheers, Tryfon
Phillip M. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another class act from someone who is now my favourite instructor on Udemy. The lectures are clear and easy to understand with excellent examples and explanations every time. Tryfon’s passion for Chess is inspirational. There’s a good chance that this course on ‘openings’ will increase your knowledge to a level where you are able to enjoy Chess.
Instructor Response
Thank you so much for your kind comments and enthusiasm - Cheers, Tryfon
Sam F. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love it <3 thank you
Netanel R. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great Teacher and great content!
Russ W. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've followed KC on YT for quite some time so was happy to see their courses available here in much greater depth.
Ray P. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So far, having a good learning experience.
Instructor Response
Great to hear :) Cheers, Tryfon
Ryan H. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It is good.
Kimberly B. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
He good at it.
Jim R. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tryfon shares his passion for chess in his courses. I continue to enjoy learning from him.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind review :) Best wishes, Tryfon
Michael N. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The instructor is quite personable. I like his approach.
Instructor Response
Many thanks for your kind words :) Cheers, Tryfon
Ryan C. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good communication, well structured. I enjoy these lessons.
Instructor Response
Thank you :) Cheers, Tryfon
Jan K. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love it.
Roman S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chess is fun, this course is about chess :-)
100 Fun Facts and Trivia About Chess Openings
1. What Is a Chess Opening?
The opening is the initial phase of a chess game where players develop pieces and aim to control the center.
2. Opening Phase Length
Typically, the first 10 to 15 moves are considered the opening stage in chess.
3. Oldest Recorded Opening: King's Gambit
The King's Gambit is one of the oldest known chess openings, dating back to the 15th century.
4. Sicilian Defense Popularity
The Sicilian Defense is the most commonly played opening at the grandmaster level.
5. Origin of the Ruy Lopez
The Ruy Lopez opening is named after a 16th-century Spanish priest who studied chess.
6. The Queen’s Gambit Isn’t a True Gambit
Despite its name, White cannot lose a pawn without compensation in the Queen’s Gambit.
7. Meaning of Gambit
The term “gambit” comes from the Italian word meaning “to offer,” referring to pawn sacrifices.
8. Origins of the French Defense
First analyzed during a correspondence match between London and Paris in 1834, the French Defense is a classic opening.
9. The Italian Game’s Historic Roots
The Italian Game is among the oldest recorded chess openings, with origins in early chess literature.
10. Najdorf Variation Fame
The Sicilian Najdorf Variation gained fame through players like Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov.
11. English Opening Namesake
Named after Howard Staunton, a 19th-century English chess master.
12. King’s Indian Defense Style
This opening suits aggressive players who enjoy complex middlegames and counterattacks.
13. Caro-Kann’s Reputation
Known for solid pawn structure and reliability, favored by many positional players.
14. Nimzo-Indian Defense Creation
Developed by Aron Nimzowitsch, this defense emphasizes control of central squares.
15. Scandinavian Defense’s Early Queen Move
Black brings the queen out early to d5 to challenge White’s center immediately.
16. Vienna Game Characteristics
Opening with 1.e4 e5 2.Nc3, the Vienna leads to rich tactical possibilities.
17. Philidor Defense Namesake
Named after François-André Danican Philidor, an 18th-century chess pioneer.
18. Hypermodern Reti Opening
Controls the center with pieces instead of pawns, a hallmark of hypermodern chess.
19. Catalan Opening Hybrid
Combines Queen’s Gambit structure with a fianchettoed bishop for long-term pressure.
20. Alekhine Defense Philosophy
Black invites White to push pawns aggressively early, aiming to undermine later.
21. Popularity of King’s Gambit in the 19th Century
This opening was widely played in the romantic era for its attacking flair.
22. Marshall Attack Aggression
A sharp counterattack in the Ruy Lopez that can catch White off guard.
23. Four Knights Game Classic
Features symmetrical development leading to balanced and classical positions.
24. The Evans Gambit Surprise
An aggressive pawn sacrifice that aims for rapid development and attack.
25. Bird’s Opening Aim
Starts with 1.f4 to control the e5 square and challenge Black’s center.
26. London System Reliability
A solid and easy-to-learn system usable against many Black responses.
27. Trompowsky Attack Disruption
Early bishop move to disrupt Black’s knight development and plans.
28. Stonewall Attack Structure
Uses a strong pawn chain to support kingside offensive operations.
29. “Fool’s Mate” Rarity
The fastest possible checkmate, rarely occurring outside beginners’ games.
30. Petrov Defense Symmetry
Leads to balanced positions with draw tendencies, favored by defensive players.
31. Sicilian Dragon’s Tactical Fire
Named for its pawn structure resembling a dragon, known for sharp play.
32. Berlin Defense Solidness
Called the “Berlin Wall” for its toughness, widely used in world championship matches.
33. King’s Indian Attack Flexibility
A setup White can use against multiple Black defenses to launch an attack.
34. Naming Origins of Openings
Many openings are named after players, places, or unique characteristics.
35. Chess Opening Literature History
Books analyzing openings have been published since the Renaissance era.
36. Sound vs. Unsound Openings
Some openings are theoretically solid; others rely on surprise and traps.
37. Giuoco Piano Meaning
Italian for “quiet game,” focusing on calm positional play.
38. Scandinavian Defense Alternative Name
Also called the Center Counter Defense, emphasizing immediate central challenge.
39. Magnus Carlsen and Ruy Lopez
Carlsen frequently uses the Ruy Lopez for its rich strategic possibilities.
40. Gambits in Fast Time Controls
Gambits are often chosen in blitz and rapid games for surprise value.
41. Closed Sicilian Style
A positional alternative to the open Sicilian with slower buildup.
42. Hedgehog Formation
A compact defensive pawn structure in certain openings.
43. Impact of Chess Engines
Engines have revolutionized opening theory and revealed new ideas.
44. Fianchetto Bishop Development
Developing a bishop to b2 or g2 to control long diagonals.
45. Scandinavian Defense at Top Level
Used occasionally by world champions for its directness.
46. Move Orders’ Importance
Subtle variations in move order can avoid unfavorable opponent responses.
47. Grünfeld Defense Strategy
Allows White a strong center that Black later attacks dynamically.
48. King’s Indian Defense Popularizers
Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov helped make it famous worldwide.
49. Benko Gambit Plans
Black sacrifices a pawn for queenside pressure and open lines.
50. Scotch Game Openness
Leads to open, tactical positions early in the game.
51. Nimzowitsch-Larsen Attack
1.b3 aiming to control the board’s diagonals and unbalance play.
52. Alapin Variation
An anti-Sicilian approach with solid and positional ideas.
53. Ruy Lopez Closed Deep Study
This complex variation is one of the most analyzed in chess history.
54. Italian Gambit Aggression
A sharp line in the Italian Game that sacrifices material for quick attack.
55. Colle System Characteristics
A solid setup emphasizing harmonious piece placement over theory.
56. Blackmar-Diemer Gambit
An exciting but less common gambit that aims for rapid development.
57. Vienna Gambit Attacking Chances
Offers White active play and chances to launch early offense.
58. Petrov Defense Preference
Favored by counter-attacking players for its symmetry and solidity.
59. King’s Indian Defense by Kasparov
Kasparov used it to great effect with aggressive kingside play.
60. French Defense Origins
A classic opening focusing on a strong pawn chain and counterattacks.
61. Caro-Kann and Capablanca
Capablanca played the Caro-Kann for its solid structure and flexibility.
62. English Opening Control
White controls the center indirectly, leading to flexible play.
63. Fried Liver Attack
A dangerous tactical line in the Italian Game featuring early sacrifices.
64. Pirc Defense
Black allows White to build a center, preparing to strike back later.
65. Latvian Gambit Risks
An aggressive but risky gambit that is rarely used at higher levels.
66. Budapest Gambit Surprise
Black sacrifices a pawn early to disrupt White’s plans.
67. Alekhine Defense Invitation
Black invites White to overextend, aiming to counterattack the center.
68. Philidor’s Pawn Philosophy
Philidor famously said, “Pawns are the soul of chess.”
69. Queen’s Indian Defense Solidity
A solid way for Black to counter White’s queen pawn opening.
70. Catalan Opening Hybrid Nature
Combines elements of the Queen’s Gambit with fianchettoed bishop pressure.
71. Dutch Defense Control
Black fights for control of e4 with the pawn thrust ...f5.
72. Grünfeld Defense Legacy
Used by Fischer and Kasparov to challenge White’s center dynamically.
73. Scandinavian Queen Out Early
Black’s early queen development can surprise opponents.
74. Romantic Era King’s Gambit
Popular in the 1800s for its daring sacrifices and attacks.
75. Marshall Attack Counterplay
Black’s aggressive counter in the Ruy Lopez leading to rich tactical play.
76. Four Knights Symmetry
Classical and balanced opening with mirrored piece development.
77. Vienna Game Kingside Attack
White aims for a swift kingside offensive in this lesser-used opening.
78. Cochrane Gambit Boldness
An aggressive pawn sacrifice in the Petrov Defense.
79. Evans Gambit History
Popularized by Paul Morphy as a dynamic attacking weapon.
80. London System Simplicity
Favored by amateurs for its solid and easy-to-learn structure.
81. Blackburne Shilling Gambit Trick
A deceptive trap designed to punish inattentive opponents.
82. Grob Attack Risks
Starting with 1.g4, it is considered unorthodox and risky.
83. Smith-Morra Gambit Aggression
A popular gambit against the Sicilian Defense at club level.
84. Italian Game Analysis
Extensively studied since the 1600s for its rich tactical themes.
85. Ruy Lopez Analysis Depth
The most deeply analyzed opening in chess theory.
86. King’s Indian Attack Flexibility
Can be played against many Black defenses with attacking intent.
87. French Defense Pawn Chains
Often leads to locked positions requiring strategic maneuvering.
88. Benko Gambit Popularizer
Grandmaster Pal Benko popularized this dynamic pawn sacrifice.
89. Sveshnikov Sicilian Sharpness
Known for complex and tactical gameplay in the Sicilian Defense.
90. Philidor Defense Revival
Once considered passive, now re-examined with new ideas.
91. Dragon Variation Naming
Named for its pawn structure resembling a dragon on the board.
92. Karpov and Caro-Kann
Anatoly Karpov often employed the Caro-Kann for its solidity.
93. Nimzo-Indian Pawn Doubling
Black aims to double White’s pawns and control critical squares.
94. Queen’s Gambit Declined
A foundational opening in classical chess theory and practice.
95. Dutch Defense World Champions
Used by champions including Alexander Alekhine.
96. Trompowsky Tactical Nature
Leads to early sharp play disrupting Black’s development.
97. English Opening 19th Century Popularity
Gained traction during the 1800s as an alternative to e4 and d4.
98. Colle System Harmony
Prioritizes harmonious piece development over complex theory.
99. Budapest Gambit Risks
A surprise weapon for Black, less common at elite levels.
100. Popularity of Opening Study
Studying openings is one of the most common activities for chess improvement worldwide.
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