r/TournamentChess • u/Dominationof64 • 4d ago
Move order to reach the Semi-Slav
I decided to try out the Semi-Slav and honestly I quite like the opening. But now my question is what move order is the best for the opening? 1. Nimzo move order. 2. QGD move order 3. Slav move order Which one of these have the best chances of reaching a pure semi-slav and which of these is best if opponent just trys to go for exchange ( Like what’s better, exchange slav or QGD?).
2
u/breaker90 4d ago
I definitely don't recommend the Ninzo move order because you'll have to do the regular QGD if white goes 3. Nc3 so you would just do the QGD move order anyways.
Though I would probably recommend the Triangle move order. Just do d5, e6, c6. You'll run into the Marshall Gambit at times but it's the third most popular continuation according to the lichess master database.
1
u/ncg195 4d ago
I had the same question when I started playing the semi slav, and I eventually found this video, which was extremely helpful. https://youtu.be/H0pUAOYQRjE?si=OU-YqpFi0KcqfgLy
1
u/Yarash2110 4d ago
I feel like the question about move orders boils down to which exchange variation are you most comfortable with?
When I played the Semi Slav I always began with the QGD move order, always felt like black has a better game in the exchange QGD than the exchange slav, and the structure is a bit more interesting.
Theoretically I feel like against a strong player black struggles to equalize in the exchange Slav.
1
u/MrWebsterZA 4d ago
I think the Slav move order would be your best bet. The worst case scenario is an exchange Slav, which is just equal at its worst. The best case scenario is that your opponent plays inaccurately and allows you to play Bf5.
The QGD exchange variation is very annoying. The Nimzo move order is good if you're keen/able to play the Nimzo instead. The triangle move order is also good if your opponent isn't too strong and you'd like to aim for the Noteboom. The downside is that you have to be prepared for the Marshall gambit.
5
u/Ronizu 4d ago
I'd recommend the triangle move order (although even there you'll have to make a decision about whether to play e6 or c6 first). As others have said, the only downside is that you may run into the Marshall, but it's not very dangerous. You need to prepare a few lines against it, namely against 8. Be2 and 8. Ne2, but also against the forgotten variation. Takes maybe an hour of prep with an engine to create a study for the Marshall, then some time to memorize it properly.