ECO code: A00
Anderssen's Opening e5 2.g3 d5 begins with the moves 1. a3 e5 2. g3 d5. This opening is quite uncommon and is named after Adolf Anderssen, a 19th-century chess master known for his creative play.
Characteristic: The first move 1. a3 is a waiting and flexible move, aiming to prevent Black’s pieces from easily developing to b4 and to prepare for a fianchetto of the bishop with 2. g3. The move 2. g3 supports this plan, focusing on controlling the long diagonal with the bishop. Black responds actively in the center with 1... e5 and 2... d5, staking a strong claim in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this opening is more positional and somewhat cautious rather than aggressively attacking. White prepares a solid setup rather than immediate confrontation. Black, on the other hand, adopts an assertive and attacking stance by occupying the center quickly with pawns on e5 and d5.
Control of the Center: White does not directly challenge the center early on but instead aims for a hypermodern approach—controlling the center from a distance with the fianchettoed bishop. Black aggressively attacks and controls the center with pawns, seeking to seize the initiative.
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.