New: The Hippopotamus system of defence

by ChessBase
2/7/2022 – What is the Hippopotamus system of defence? The idea is that, at the beginning of the game, Black develops within his own first three ranks. He constructs a solid, flexible and hopefully stable position, awaiting events. At the right moment, he will strike back! The Hippopotamus was given the name by an eccentric English amateur player JC Thompson, back in the 1950’s. It seems as good a name as any. Given the right conditions, Black will emerge from the chessboard swamp and crush all before them.

The Hippopotamus system of defence The Hippopotamus system of defence

What is the Hippopotamus system of defence? The idea is that, at the beginning of the game, Black develops within his own first three ranks. He constructs a solid, flexible and hopefully stable position, awaiting events. At the right moment, he will strik

More...

The Hippopotamus system of defence

by Andrew Martin

Many strong players have taken a liking to the Hippo, including such greats as Boris Spassky and Gata Kamsky. Here we have an anti-theoretical opening, which has allowed them to draw on experience, rather than the need to remember long move sequences. It’s worth pointing out that White may play in Hippo-style too.

On this ChessBase video course IM and FIDE Senior Trainer Andrew Martin maps out a game plan for the Hippo user and shows how the opening is played in the present day. It is an exciting tour of some very unusual chess.

  • Video running time: 5 hours
  • With interactive training including video feedback
  • Extra: Training with ChessBase apps - play key positions against Fritz on various levels

The Hippopotamus system of defence

What is the Hippopotamus system of defence? The idea is that, at the beginning of the game, Black develops within his own first three ranks. He constructs a solid, flexible and hopefully stable position, awaiting events. At the right moment, he will strik

Links:

Reports about chess: tournaments, championships, portraits, interviews, World Championships, product launches and more.

Discuss

Rules for reader comments

 
 

Not registered yet? Register

arzi arzi 2/9/2022 06:48
There are a lot of different game systems available for the club players which top level player thinks to be as a rubbish. Why couldn't the Hippo be like that? If it works for them where`s the problem? Sometimes it's fun to look your opponent in the eye as he wonders "... what the fu ...".
Master Yoda Master Yoda 2/8/2022 03:22
@Theochessman Ok Magnus Carlsen !
Theochessman Theochessman 2/7/2022 07:57
I studied and played the Hippo for some years.
My conclusion is that it's total rubbish.
Against decent opposition it's plain bad.
1