Norwegian Defense

The opening move e4 immediately stakes a claim on the center of the board, allowing for the development of the bishop and queen. It also opens up diagonal lines for attacking opportunities later in the game. This move puts pressure on the black knight, which is usually developed on f6. If black decides to play g6 to fianchetto their bishop, it can lead to the Norwegian Defense, a lesser-known but intriguing variation.

The move g6 by black is a common response to e4, where black aims to control the diagonal c8-h3 with their bishop and fianchetto their kingside bishop to a strong position. They also prepare to castle kingside and aim for a solid, defensive setup. This move is also a flexible response that can lead to several variations such as the Modern Defense or the Pirc Defense, both of which are popular among grandmasters.

Playing d4 by white is a natural follow-up to e4 g6 as it helps to control the center and frees the c1 bishop. It also opens up lines for the queen and bishop and puts pressure on the knight on f6. This move can lead to several different variations such as the King's Indian Defense or the Modern Defense, depending on black's response. In sum, d4 is a strong move that sets the stage for an aggressive game and allows white to aim for a more central and dominant position.

In the Norwegian Defense, after 1.e4 g6 2.d4, black wants to play Nf6. This develops the knight while attacking the central pawn on d4. It also prepares for the possibility to put pressure on the e4 pawn with the pawn on d5 in the future, and puts pressure on white's central control. Black's knight on f6 is also a key piece in the King's Indian Defense, which can arise from this position, and can lead to complicated and dynamic play. In sum, Nf6 is a solid move for black that continues to strengthen their position and control of the board.

Playing e5 by white is an aggressive response to 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Nf6 that aims to gain control of the center and attack black's knight. It opens up diagonal lines for attacking opportunities and exerts pressure on black's position. In some variations, it can lead to the pawn being lost or a temporary sacrifice of material in return for a dangerous attack. However, the move can also result in an open position and a loss of pawn structure for white. In sum, e5 is a brave move by white that can lead to a volatile and exciting game.

In response to 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Nf6 3.e5, black wants to play Nh5. This move attacks the pawn on e5 while also bringing the knight back into the game. By placing the knight on h5, black also prepares to fianchetto the g7 bishop and puts pressure on the white king-side. Additionally, the knight on h5 can potentially be used to support an attack on white's king position. However, this move can also expose the knight to future attacks by white's pawn advance g4 or bishop to g5. In sum, Nh5 is a dynamic move by black that aims to disrupt the white position and keep the game complex.

In the Norwegian Defense, after 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Nf6 3.e5 Nh5, white wants to play g4. This move prepares to chase the knight on h5 away and control the center of the board. It also opens up diagonal lines for attacking opportunities and puts pressure on the black position. By advancing the pawn two squares, white exposes their own position to attack, but also forces black to make a decision about their knight placement. Additionally, the move can lead to interesting tactics and gambits. In sum, g4 is a daring move that seeks to gain momentum and seize control of the game.

In response to 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Nf6 3.e5 Nh5 4.g4, black wants to play Ng7. This move retreats the knight to a safer position while also guarding the vulnerable pawn on h5. It also frees up the f-pawn space for the king and starts preparing for castling. By moving the knight back, black avoids exchanging it for the bishop and strengthens its position. However, this move can also restrict the mobility of black's pieces and make it harder for them to counterattack. In sum, Ng7 is a solid move by black that aims to maintain a balanced and defensive position.