Horwitz Defense

Horwitz Defense is a chess opening that begins with 1. d4 e6. It's also known as the French Defense reversed.

The idea behind this opening is to control the central squares with the pawn structure and prepare to develop the minor pieces.

One of the strengths of Horwitz Defense is that it's a flexible opening that can lead to diverse positions depending on White's response.

However, playing e6 on the second move can also weaken Black's control of the central squares, leaving the d5 square vulnerable to White's pieces.

In sum, Horwitz Defense requires a good understanding of pawn structures and positional play, making it a challenging opening for both beginners and intermediate players.

Horwitz Defense, move by move

d4

+0.14

Chess is a game of strategy, and the first move is crucial for setting the tone for the rest of the match. When playing as white, starting with d4 is a common opening move. This move immediately controls the center of the board, preparing for the development of pieces and potential threats. By controlling the center of the board with d4, white can also limit the potential movements of their opponent's pieces, giving them the upper hand in the early stages of the game.

Play on the board

e6

+0.68

In response to white's opening move of d4, black may choose to play e6 as their first move. This move prepares to develop the bishop to either d6 or b4, and also helps control the center of the board. By placing their pawn on e6, black aims to create a strong pawn structure and limit the potential range of white's opponent's pieces. It may also set up potential tactical maneuvers later on in the game. In sum, playing e6 is a solid and flexible move that can allow for a diverse range of strategies and counter-attacks.

Play on the board

How to play the Horwitz Defense

Horwitz Defense requires the black pawn on e6 to control the center and free the light-squared bishop. Develop the kingside knight to f6 or the queenside knight to c6 to reinforce d5, the weakest square. Depending on white's response, play c5 to strengthen the center or g6 to secure the bishop diagonal. Hunt for the opponent's pawn weaknesses and aim to trade pawns to create more open lines for pieces.

How to counter the Horwitz Defense

Horwitz Defense can be countered by seizing control of the center with d4 and e4 to create pawn structures that limit black's movement. Develop pieces to protect the center and attack black's pawn on e6. Create pressure on black's position with early Bb5 or f4. When black plays c5, counterattack with dxc5 and control the center. Stay focused not to get into positional weaknesses while taking advantage of black's challenges.

Pawn structure in the Horwitz Defense

The Horwitz Defense opening creates a pawn structure known as the French Defense reversed. Though the pawn structures remain the same, black plays from the other side of the board. The pawn on e6 forms a solid wall and blocks the bishop's pawn, preventing it from moving freely. The light-squared bishop is set free to attack through the pawn chain while the dark-squared bishop must wait its turn. The pawn on d4 and e5 with continuous control of the center prepares for future development.

The papachess advice

Horwitz Defense is a fascinating opening that offers Black great flexibility and control of the central squares. It requires a good knowledge of pawn structures and positional play, making it a moderate challenge that rewards those who master it. While its perceived weakness of the d5 square and weakened control of the center can make it difficult to play, Horwitz Defense compensates through its versatility and potential for diverse positions. Counter moves such as d4 and e4 can pose a threat, but with skillful maneuvers and careful planning, Black can successfully navigate through them. In conclusion, the Horwitz Defense opening, with its unique pawn structure and flexibility, is a valuable tool for any chess player looking to expand their repertoire and improve their game.