Instructive Chess Miniatures, Open Games: Chess Opening Series, #1

By Özer Mumcu

     While there are many books written on miniature chess games, there is no consensus or official rule on exactly how many moves constitute a miniature. Some commentators consider a maximum of 20 moves, some 25, and others 30. In your book, this number is accepted as 30.

     Of course, the crucial point regarding miniatures is not the number of moves. The fact that any chess game can conclude in a few moves is only possible with the emergence of some exceptional circumstances, making miniatures intriguing. These exceptional circumstances could include a groundbreaking opening innovation, a blunder made by one of the opponents in the opening stage, or the early emergence of a brilliant combination following an unexpected sacrifice. If such a game is played, especially by master players, it is extremely exciting for chess enthusiasts at every level.

      In the first volume of the planned three-volume series, miniature games arising from open openings are discussed.

     As we all know, open openings begin with the moves 1.e4 e5 and, although they are still frequently preferred today, they are more characteristic of the romantic era of chess. This romantic era of chess coincides with the period of romanticism in literature, music, and art worldwide. The distinctive features of this era include sharp and sacrificial attacks directed towards the opponent's king from the opening stage, brilliant and creative combinations, and tactical sequences, best exemplified by the King's Gambit.

     This approach prevailed in the chess world until the mid-19th century when Wilhelm Steinitz formulated the foundational principles of positional chess, leading to its widespread adoption.

     Wishing it to be beneficial to all chess enthusiasts.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Özer Mumcu
• Release date: Dec 29, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223895534