ECO code: A00
Anderssen's Opening e5 begins with the unusual move 1. a3 by White, followed by Black's natural response 1... e5.
Characteristic: The move 1. a3 is a waiting or preparatory move that does not immediately contest the center or develop a piece. It aims to prevent Black's bishop or knight from coming to b4 early and can prepare for b4 expansion later. However, it is considered somewhat passive and rare at higher levels.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, 1. a3 is generally a non-attacking, somewhat defensive or flexible move that keeps options open but does not directly challenge Black's position. Black’s 1... e5 is a classical and assertive response, immediately staking a claim in the center and taking the initiative.
Center Control: White’s first move does not attack or occupy the center, whereas Black’s 1... e5 move directly contests and controls the central squares, which is a fundamental principle in the opening phase.
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 e5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 7 - Move #4 white