English Orangutan

English Orangutan is a chess opening that starts with the move c4, also known as the English Opening. It is followed by Nf6 and then b4, which is the unusual move giving it the name "Orangutan". This opening can be used to disturb the opponent's plan and force them to make a blunder.

However, this opening is not without weaknesses, as it can often lead to an unbalanced position and the development of the bishop can be obstructed by the pawn on b4. Also, it requires a deep understanding of positional play and long-term planning, which makes it difficult for beginners.

Despite being a less common opening, the English Orangutan can be an effective weapon in the hands of experienced players who know how to capitalize on their opponent's mistakes and take full advantage of the potentially favorable position.

English Orangutan, move by move

c4

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In the English Orangutan opening, white begins with the move c4, also known as the English opening. This move aims to control the center of the board and gain space on the queen's side. By placing the pawn on c4, white intends to cramp black's position and limit their options upon their response. This opening can also lead to a transposition of moves and can offer white a flexible and dynamic position. In sum, the English Orangutan is a strategic opening that can set the tone for the rest of the game.

Play on the board

Nf6

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After the move 1. c4 by white, black usually responds with Nf6. The knight on f6 controls the central squares and prepares for a rapid development of the pieces. Black also aims to create pressure on the d4 square, which is currently undefended by white. By placing the knight on f6, black can also prepare for a fianchetto of the kingside bishop. In sum, the move Nf6 is a common and logical response to c4 as it prepares for an active and aggressive game.

Play on the board

b4

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After the moves 1. c4 Nf6, white often plays b4, also known as the Sokolsky opening or Polish opening. The move b4 aims to control the a5-e1 diagonal and put pressure on the queenside. By advancing the pawn on b4, white can force black to make a decision about how to react. If black takes the pawn, it opens up the b-file for white's rook to become active. If black decides not to take the pawn, then white can follow up with a4 and further restrict black's space. In sum, b4 is a dynamic and aggressive move that can lead to sharp and tactical play.

Play on the board

How to play the English Orangutan

English Orangutan starts with 1.c4, 2.Nf6, and then the uncommon move b4, which gives this opening its name. The idea behind b4 is to control the c5 square and limit Black's options. The opening can be played aggressively with moves like Ba3 and Qb3, putting pressure on Black's position. However, it's important to be careful, as b4 can leave weaknesses in White's pawn structure and the bishop on b2 can sometimes be obstructed by the pawn.

In sum, the key to playing the English Orangutan well is a good understanding of positional play and long-term planning, as it can lead to complex and unbalanced positions that require careful calculation and accuracy.

How to counter the English Orangutan

English Orangutan can cause trouble for Black, who should be careful not to fall into White's plans. One way to counter it is to put pressure on the pawn on b4 with moves like Nc6 and d5, challenging White's control of the center. Black can also develop pieces normally, with moves like e6 and Bb7, and then prepare a counterattack when the time is right. However, be aware that White can use the move b5 to try to gain space and open lines for the pieces.

In sum, the best plan is to be solid and stable, avoiding any overly aggressive or risky moves that could leave Black vulnerable to counterattack. With careful planning and good defense, Black can neutralize White's strategic advantages and aim for a balanced and equal position.

Pawn structure in the English Orangutan

The pawn structure in English Orangutan is usually fluid and flexible, which can be good for both sides. White's pawn on b4 controls the c5 square and limits Black's options on the queenside.

The c4 pawn is supported by the knight on f3 and can potentially become a strong central pawn if White plays d3 and e4. Black's pawn structure is often more symmetrical, with pawns on c5 and e6.

However, this can lead to weaknesses in the pawn structure if Black advances too far or becomes overly aggressive. In sum, the pawn structure can be a key factor in determining the strategic plan for both players, and careful attention to pawn placement and control is crucial for success.

The papachess advice

English Orangutan is not a common opening in chess, but it can be a powerful weapon in the hands of experienced players. Its unusual move, b4, can put pressure on Black's position and lead to favorable positions for the White pieces. However, the opening is not without its weaknesses, and it requires a deep understanding of positional play and long-term planning.

The pawn structure can be fluid and flexible, allowing for both sides to potentially benefit. Black has several ways to counter the opening, such as challenging White's control of the center or playing solidly and avoiding risky moves. It is important to be aware of potential traps and pitfalls that can come with the opening, and to be prepared to adapt as the game progresses.

In sum, English Orangutan is an opening that rewards careful calculation, strategic planning, and creative thinking. While it may not be the first choice for many players, those who master its nuances and subtleties can use it to great effect and gain a decisive advantage over their opponents.