In chess, the first move is very crucial. A player should already have a chess opening strategy in mind even before starting the game.
One of the most popular chess opening strategies is the famous opening line 1.e4 where the pawn opens the way for the white bishop while also taking control of the center.
The center is composed of four squares in the middle of the board (d4, d5, e4, e5). Experts say that having control of it is like taking the ground in a battle. When you have control of it, your pieces become more flexible in moving around the board. Take, for example, the knight. If it is at the center, it can have up to eight choices of moves that are much greater than when it is in other positions.
Another common opening is 1.d4. It is very similar to 1.e4 except that it gives way to the queen and the other bishop. It also controls the center. Using this opening line can help you put your pieces into position as you plan your attack and take hold of your defense.
Early in the game, your chess opening strategy should also be a move to maximize your chess pieces. Many of them are behind the pawns, so they should be let out, but this doesn’t mean that all pawns should move. Some should remain to guard the king.
The rooks, which are at the corners, can be developed through castling. The earlier you castle, the better because you put your king in a safe corner while developing the rook at the same time. The rook is powerful, so you should utilize it as much as you can.
Knowing some chess opening strategies strengthens your footing in the game. The openings mentioned here are just the tip of an iceberg. There is still much to learn, and you can learn them all by enrolling in classes conducted by experienced chess tutors online.