Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit is a bold and aggressive chess opening that starts with the moves 1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 e5 3. dxe5 d6.

The main idea behind this opening is to grab the center of the board with the doubled pawns on e5 and d4, activate the knight on c6 and open up lines for the pieces.

This opening has the advantage of taking your opponent out of their comfort zone and forcing them to think on their own instead of following a predetermined set of moves.

However, it also has inherent weaknesses, such as giving away the black pawn on e5 and creating isolated pawns on d4 and d6. Black must be careful not to fall behind in development and to protect their pawn structure.

In sum, the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit can be a difficult opening to play, as it requires precise timing and an ability to calculate variations accurately. But it can also be a rewarding opening, as it allows for a dynamic and aggressive playstyle.

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit, move by move

e4

-0.15

Chess opening theory can be a daunting subject to study, with myriad possibilities and intricacies to consider. One popular opening for black is the Nimzowitsch Defense. In this variation, black responds to white's e4 with Nc6, challenging white's control over the center of the board. White responds by playing d4, opening up the possibility of a pawn exchange in the center. This move aims to solidify white's control over the center of the board and establish a strong pawn structure. By occupying these central squares, white can look to launch an attack on the black position and gain an advantage.

Play on the board

Nc6

+0.65

In response to white's e4, black plays Nc6. This move aims to disrupt white's control over the center of the board, by threatening to attack white's e4 pawn and prevent the advance of the d-pawn. Additionally, Nc6 frees up the e7 square for the black bishop to develop. By playing Nc6, black is attempting to undermine white's position and gain control of the center of the board themselves.

Play on the board

d4

+0.28

In response to black's Nc6, white plays d4. By advancing the d-pawn, white is continuing to establish a strong pawn presence in the center of the board. This move also opens up the possibility of a pawn exchange, as black may choose to take the pawn with their knight. However, this exchange would also free up the d5 square for white's pieces, allowing for further control of the center. Ultimately, by playing d4, white aims to continue to build upon their strong position and control the board.

Play on the board

e5

+0.92

In the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit, after the moves 1. e4 Nc6 2. d4, Black aims to play e5. By advancing the pawn, black establishes a strong pawn presence in the center of the board. This move also prepares to attack the white d4 pawn, forcing it to either retreat or be exchanged. Additionally, e5 controls the d4 square and frees up the f8 square for black's queen bishop to develop. Ultimately, by playing e5, black hopes to gain a foothold in the center and take control of the game.

Play on the board

dxe5

+0.33

In response to black's e5, white chooses to play dxe5. This move has a dual purpose: firstly, it opens up the d-file and allows white to develop the queen or rook to that square, gaining control over the center. Secondly, it forces black to take back with the pawn, as taking with the knight would result in the loss of the knight. This pawn exchange also weakens black's pawn structure and leaves them with an isolated pawn on d6. Ultimately, by playing dxe5, white aims to gain a tactical advantage and put pressure on black's position.

Play on the board

d6

+1.25

In response to white's dxe5, black chooses to play d6. This move defends the e5 pawn and seeks to stop the advance of the white pawn on d4. Additionally, by playing d6, black looks to solidify their pawn structure and create a strong defensive position. This move also prepares for the development of black's dark-squared bishop to d7, further solidifying their position and supporting the pawn chain. Ultimately, by playing d6, black aims to counter white's aggressive play and establish a strong foundation for their pieces.

Play on the board

How to play the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit requires Black to be bold and quick in establishing control over the center of the board.

To achieve this, start by moving the Knight to c6 as early as possible, followed by pawn e5.

White will usually respond by moving their own pawn to d4, which Black can then gain control of with pawn d6.

The Gambit arises when White takes the pawn on e5, after which Black takes the pawn back with pawn d6, attacking the White Pawn once again.

Black must play accurately during this opening, maintaining coordination among the pieces, in order to capitalize on the targets created in the opponent's camp.

How to counter the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit can be challenging for white to counter, as it can take them out of the comfort zone of more common lines.

However, one possible approach is to avoid accepting the Gambit by not taking the pawn on e5, instead choosing to continue developing pieces.

Another option is to trade the Knight for the pawn to remove Black's control of the center and equalize the game.

The key is to maintain control of the center and avoid falling behind in development, while being aware of possible tactics and sacrifices by Black.

Players should also aim to create pawn structure weaknesses in Black's camp, particularly around the d4 and e5 squares.

Pawn structure in the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit

The pawn structure in Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit is unique and plays a crucial role in the game.

The doubled pawns on e5 and d4 can be an advantage, as they control the center and open up lines for the pieces.

However, they can also be a weakness, creating isolated pawns and vulnerabilities in the center.

Black should aim to maintain control of the center and use the pawns as a shield for the pieces, while also being mindful of possible tactics and sacrifices by White.

White, on the other hand, should look to exploit the pawn structure weakness by attacking the d6 pawn and aiming to trade pieces to reduce Black's control of the center.

The papachess advice

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit is a unique and exciting opening that can challenge both Black and White players.

It has a reputation for its dynamic and aggressive playstyle, with the potential for complex tactics and sacrifices.

However, it also involves risks and requires precise timing and coordination of the pieces.

Analyzing the opening move by move can provide insight into the strengths and weaknesses of each side, as well as potential variations.

Players must be mindful of the pawn structure and maintain control of the center while avoiding pitfalls and possible traps from their opponents.

While not as common as some other openings, Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit can provide an effective weapon in the hands of skilled players.

It allows for flexible and creative play, with the potential for exciting attacking sequences and unexpected moves.

In sum, this opening requires practice and study, as well as an ability to adapt to the opponent's strategy.

But for those who enjoy dynamic and aggressive play, Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, de Smet Gambit can be a rewarding opening, leading to exciting and unpredictable games.

With careful attention and a willingness to take risks, players of all levels can benefit from exploring this unique and challenging opening.