Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit is an unorthodox opening that begins with moving the knight to c6 in the first move, instead of the traditional e5 or e6. This opening leads to a sharp game where white tries to gain control of the center.

The Herford Gambit is initiated with a pawn push to d4 on the second move and attacks black's pawn on e5 with a pawn capture. The Knight is threatened on c6 with a Knight move (Nf3) or g5 push.

Black counterattacks white's pawn on e5 with their own queen, creating a double attack on e5 and h2.

This opening is suitable for players who want to surprise their opponents and catch them unprepared. However, Black must be careful not to lose a tempo with their queen in the opening moves.

The Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit is not a commonly played opening and can lead to difficult and complex positions. It can be risky if not played accurately, but can result in an exciting game for those who wish to take it on.

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit, move by move

e4

-0.15

The move e4 in chess is one of the most common and popular opening moves for White. It aims to control the center of the board and free up White's pieces for future moves. By playing e4, White also creates an opportunity for their king's bishop and queen's pawn to become active. Additionally, it puts pressure on Black to respond in a way that doesn't lose material or give up too much space. In sum, e4 is a strong and aggressive move that sets the tone for the game.

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Nc6

+0.65

By playing Nc6 as their first move, Black aims to control the d4 square, which is a key square in the center of the board. This move also puts pressure on White's e4 pawn, as it is no longer protected by a pawn and can be attacked by Black's knight. Additionally, playing Nc6 provides an opportunity for Black's queen knight to become active. In sum, Nc6 is a solid move that aims to contest White's control over the center of the board.

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d4

+0.28

The move d4 by White aims to claim more control over the central squares of the board. By supporting the pawn on e4, White aims to solidify their control over this vital area, while simultaneously threatening to push the pawn forward to e5. This move also opens up lines of attack for both the queen and the bishop. Both the queen and bishop can now become more active, putting pressure on Black's position. In sum, playing d4 is an aggressive and ambitious move that aims to gain control of the center and the initiative in the game.

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e5

+0.92

In the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit, Black often responds to White's d4 with e5. This move aims to challenge White's control over the center of the board and stake a claim to the e4 square. By advancing the pawn to e5, Black also opens up lines for their queen's bishop and queen. Additionally, this move puts pressure on White's pawn on d4, as it can be taken by Black's pawn if White chooses to capture on e5. In sum, playing e5 is a dynamic and aggressive move that highlights Black's willingness to fight for control of the board.

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dxe5

+0.33

By playing dxe5, White aims to disrupt Black's pawn structure and potentially gain a material advantage. Capturing on e5 also removes any pressure on White's d4 pawn and frees up the diagonal for White's light-squared bishop to become active. Additionally, taking the pawn on e5 can punish Black for their aggressive pawn advance and force them to make a difficult decision about how to recapture. In sum, taking on e5 is a tactical move that seeks to take advantage of the weaknesses in Black's position.

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Qh4

+1.59

In response to White's capture on e5, Black often plays Qh4 in order to threaten the pawn on h2 and indirectly attack White's king. This move also develops Black's queen and puts some pressure on White's position. Additionally, by threatening the pawn on h2, Black can potentially force White to waste a move defending their king. However, playing Qh4 does come at a cost, as Black's queen is now exposed and can be subject to attack by White's pieces. In sum, playing Qh4 is a bold move that seeks to take advantage of White's weakened pawn structure and create threats against White's king.

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How to play the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit starts with 1. e4 Nc6. On the second move, white attacks black's pawn on e5 with a pawn capture on d4. Instead of defending the pawn, Black counterattacks the pawn on e5 with their queen with 3... Qh4. White's best move is to retreat their queen (4. Qe2) or play the bold move 4. Nf3, which puts pressure on Black's Knight. In response to 4. Nf3, Black can play a Knight move (4... Nf6) or continue the attack with the Herford Gambit 4... dxe4, sacrificing the Knight.

How to counter the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit can be countered by playing accurately in the opening. Black's Knight on c6 is vulnerable to a pawn push to d5, effectively blocking it. If 4. Nf3 is played, Black can respond with 4... d6, which puts pressure on White's pawn on e5. If White accepts the gambit with 4. exf6, black can continue with 4... d5, attacking white's pawn chain and catching up on development. If White attacks the Queen with 4. Qe2, Black can respond with 4... Nf6, developing their Knight and putting pressure on White's pawn. A good understanding of basic opening principles and accurate play can lead to a favorable position for Black.

Pawn structure in the Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit

In Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit, White's pawn chain on d4 and e5 dominates the center. The pawn structure is symmetrical, with both sides controlling the same amount of space. Black's pawn on e5 is vulnerable to attack but can be used as a lever to challenge White's pawn chain. If White captures on e5, Black's pawn on d6 can control the square, leading to a solid pawn structure. However, if Black captures on e4, the position becomes unbalanced, and White can gain space on the kingside. The pawn structure plays an essential role in this opening, and both sides must carefully evaluate their moves to maintain a strong position.

The papachess advice

Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Herford Gambit is not a commonly played opening, but it can be an effective surprise weapon for Black. The opening leads to a sharp game where control of the center is critical. The Herford Gambit creates an early tactical battle, and Black's counterattack can add pressure to White's position. The pawn structure is symmetrical, and both sides must play precisely to maintain their position. The opening is of moderate difficulty but can lead to complex and exciting positions. It's not a safe choice for players who lack familiarity with the opening. The key to success in this opening is understanding the motives behind each move, looking for opportunities to place pressure on your opponent while maintaining a solid position.