King Pawn Openings: Sicilian Defense

The Sicilian Defense starts in a certain fashion as to break the initial symmetry in the game. By replying to White's initial P - K4 with ... P - QB4 Black offers more than just a contest for the center with the Sicilian Defense, Black also proffers a challenge to White. As a summary assessment, we can say that among the chess openings, this is one that brings the fight directly into White's playground.

Both White and Black will definitely be in a constant struggle to obtain their goals in the opening when playing the Sicilian Defense and its many action packed variations. An understanding of the principles of behind this play is necessary in order for any player to achieve the short-term goals toward victory.

Since Black "virtually" leaves the center open in the opening, White will undoubtedly have more terrain on the chessboard to work on. One theory that may seem appealing is to mount an effective offense. If White opts to do so in this stage of the Sicilian, the normal moves White can make may come in the form of P - KKt4, followed by P - Kt5, next by P - B5, and finally by P - B6. Another option that is open to White is to make a long castle (i.e. making a castle on the Queen's side). Just take note that castling on the Queen's side will have repercussions that allows Black to make counter plays.

It may seem that the tables have turned when playing the Sicilian Defense since it is now up to White to prevent Black from making a P - Q4. This would be one of Whites major objectives for this opening.

Black, on the other hand, will make it a goal to continuously put pressure on White's Queen's Bishop file. The emphasis of all the threats will be directed on the QB5 position on the chessboard. A second threat is then placed by Black on White's King Pawn. The threat of a counter attack on the King's Pawn is just as strong as the one for the QB5 and threats to both pressure points can be maneuvered independently.

Both parties need to consider three important considerations in a Sicilian Defense:

1. Black must do all that is possible to thwart White from playing P - QB4. If White is able to make that move without any form of challenge then White has secured an advantage with which Black has no chance to counter.

2. If White does manage to successfully play P - Q4, Black should avoid playing P - K4 since that would leave his Queen's Pawn in an open file.

3. White should be on the offensive since time is now on Black's side.

The Sicilian Defense can be said to be one of the chess openings that bring on the fight. Both sides should be aware of the principles and ideas behind this opening.