Learn Chess Openings
Pick a line, play the moves, get instant feedback, and build your recall through practice.
Italian Game - playing as Black
16
openings
387
training lines
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The loop
Active recall at the board.
Videos explain ideas. The trainer builds recall by asking you to play the next move yourself.
Step 1
Choose a line
Start with a recommended variation or pick the opening you already play.
Step 2
Play the move
The board waits for your answer and gives immediate feedback.
Step 3
Repeat weak lines
Use Adaptive Rotation to give less-successful lines more practice.
Not sure where to start?
Start with these three openings, then add answers to the sidelines and flank openings you encounter.
Start the path- 1
As White
London System
A familiar White setup against many replies. Learn the key exceptions as you go.
- 2
vs 1.e4
Caro-Kann Defence
Solid, structured, and famously hard to crack. Used by Karpov and Anand.
- 3
vs 1.d4
King's Indian Defence
A recognisable kingside setup with sharp, position-dependent counterplay.
Opening chooser
Pick the next part of your repertoire
Start with a suggested opening, or browse by the side you need to improve.
Best first opening
London System
A familiar White setup, with adjustments for different Black replies.
Against 1.e4
Caro-Kann Defence
A solid central structure with distinct plans for each variation.
Against 1.d4
King's Indian Defence
A fighting setup with clear themes and challenging middlegame plans.
Play as White
Choose the kind of first move you want to build your games around.
Defend as Black
Pick a dependable answer to the openings you face most often.
Want the full catalogue view?
Filter all 16 openings and 387 training lines on the openings hub.
Frequently asked questions
Put understanding into practice
Learn the ideas. Practise the moves.
Pair lessons and videos with hands-on recall. Try a short practice session, review the moves you missed, and return to them over time.
Pick your first opening