ECO code: A00
Anderssen's Opening begins with the move 1. a3. This is a very rare and unconventional first move for White.
The characteristic of this move is that it is a waiting move, aiming to control the b4-square and preventing Black’s pieces or pawns from advancing there. However, it does not contribute directly to central control or development.
As White, this opening is neither strongly attacking nor defensive; it is more of a flexible, somewhat passive move that prepares for later ideas rather than immediately challenging Black. It does not directly attack the center, which means White relinquishes the opportunity to stake an early claim there.
Overall, Anderssen's Opening is considered offbeat and is typically used to avoid mainline theory rather than to gain an immediate advantage in the center or initiate direct attacks.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Anderssen's Opening, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 21 - Move #4 white