Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System

Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System is a tricky and uncommon opening that starts with e4 c5. The idea behind this opening is to provoke a waste of time from the opponent by playing a6 on move two. Then, the knight goes to c3 in order to control the d5 square.

Its strengths lie in the fact that it's not a very popular opening, so it can surprise unprepared opponents. Moreover, it allows the player who plays it to control the board's center and get a lead in development.

However, it can be difficult to play because black's pawn structure is weakened. Furthermore, it can be challenging to find the right moves to make the most of its potential.

In sum, Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System is a viable option for advanced chess players who are looking for an unusual and complex opening to play with black.

Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System, move by move

e4

-0.15

The move e4 is a standard opening move for White that aims to control the center of the board and establish a strong pawn structure. By occupying the center with the pawn, White can control the game's tempo by threatening to attack Black's position. Additionally, this move creates potential for the white bishop to become active and supports the knight's development. In sum, White's decision to play e4 sets the tone for an aggressive game and initiates a strategic battle for control of the board.

Play on the board

c5

+0.74

Black's move c5 in response to e4 aims to immediately challenge White's control of the center and prevent further expansion. By playing the Sicilian Defense, Black plans to control the d4 square, creating opportunities to launch counterattacks against White's position. Additionally, this move allows Black's queen to access the c7 square, activating the queen along the b8-h2 diagonal. In sum, c5 is a crucial move in the opening as it sets the stage for an aggressive and tactical game.

Play on the board

Nf3

-0.19

White's move Nf3 develops the knight towards the center of the board and prepares to castle kingside. By playing this move, White also provides additional support for the pawn on e4. This knight move is common in many openings and sets the stage for the central clash between the pawn structures. Additionally, the knight on f3 controls the d4 square, which limits Black's counterplay. In sum, Nf3 is a flexible move that aims to control the center and prepare for future developments in the game.

Play on the board

a6

+0.67

In the Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System, Black's move a6 aims to prevent White's knight from occupying the b5 square and controlling the c7 square. By playing a6, Black also prepares to develop the bishop to a7, which puts pressure on White's pawn structure and creates immediate threats to the center. Additionally, this move advances Black's pawn on the queenside, which can potentially create opportunities for counterplay. In sum, a6 is an important move in the opening as it disrupts White's plans and puts pressure on their position.

Play on the board

Nc3

-0.24

White's move Nc3 aims to continue developing pieces and controlling the center of the board. By playing Nc3, White prepares for the possibility of pushing the d4 pawn or repositioning the knight to b3. Additionally, this move puts pressure on Black's pawn on c5, which can potentially create weaknesses in their pawn structure. In sum, Nc3 is a flexible move that allows for further development and potentially disruptive threats to Black's position.

Play on the board

How to play the Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System

Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System is unique and requires mastery. Here's how to play it: on move two, play a6 to provoke the opponent to waste time by moving the knight; at move three, move knight to c3 to control d5. Black's idea is to put pressure on the opponent by controlling the center and creating threats on the opponent's pawn structure. Taking advantage of the surprise element, aiming for a lead in development and equally important, pre-planning are keys to success.

How to counter the Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System

Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System aims to surprise and complicate the opponent. Knowing how to counter it can put the opponent on the back foot. The main idea is to play solidly and control the center. Moving a pawn to d3 or d4 can prevent the opponent from pushing their pawn to d5 and gaining control of the center. Good preparation involving analyzing games that include this opening would also be helpful. With a bit of patience and good play, this opening can be countered effectively.

Pawn structure in the Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System

In typical Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System positions, black's pawn structure usually consists of a pawn on c5, one on a6, and another on e6. The pawns on c5 and e6 control key squares and prevent white from playing their pawns to d4 and gaining control of the center. However, this pawn structure also weakens black's queenside and makes their a6 pawn a target for white. Another weakness in this pawn structure is the d6-pawn. It can become vulnerable when white's knights and bishops start to put pressure on it. Black should try to defend the pawn structure solidly while looking for any opportunities to attack and create weaknesses for white's structure.

The papachess advice

Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System is an uncommon opening that can be tricky to play but also rewarding for black. Its main idea revolves around the control of the board's center and the development of pieces. It has several strong points, such as surprising the opponent, controlling the board's center, and leading in development. However, it also has some weaknesses, such as weakening black's pawn structure and being difficult to play. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of this opening is key to playing it effectively or countering it successfully. A good preparation that includes analyzing games that employ this opening can help. All in all, Sicilian Defense: O'Kelly Variation, Yerevan System is a fascinating opening that can make for an exciting game when played correctly.