The Hedgehog - a universal system against 1.c4 and 1.Nf3
At first glance, the Hedgehog setup might appear somewhat passive but in fact Black is always waiting to launch a counterattack. Let Yannick Pelletier provide you with a complete repertoire against the English and the Reti!
Which is your favourite DVD (of your own) and why?
It is my fourth time in the Chessbase studio in Hamburg, but so far only one of my DVD has been published. This is the one about the Hedgehog. The others are still in the making, while I also contribute to Masterclass DVDs. Only one published, but I also know that this will be my favourite for a long time — the Hedgehog in the English Opening has been one of my favourite systems for about 20 years. This work comes from the heart, and it certainly transpires in the videos.
What is your all lifetime motto over the board (and maybe also in life)?
In life perhaps: "Don't waste time on people who don't like you". This can hardly be applied at the chess board, though, as one should pay attention to every piece and pawn.
What is it that you like most about playing chess?
Silence :)
Do you think that you have enough time to spare also on non-chess-related activities?
Nowadays, this question should rather be reversed! As the father of two little boys, I almost don't play tournaments anymore and work very little on my own training.
Which is the ChessBase program that you use the most (and what for)?
I've always tried to remain up to date and therefore work with ChessBase 14. Chessbase 14 - Starter Package - english Version Follow the World Champion and your chess friend next door. Start your success story with ChessBase 14 and enjoy your chess even more! In addition to the Chessbase 14 Program the Starter Package contains:
• Access to the Live-Database (8 million games)*
• Big Database 2018
• CBMagazine subscription for half a year (3 issues)
• Database-Update-Service through end of 2018
• Six months Premium membership for playchess and for the ChessBase Accounts
Yannick Pelletier | Photo: Niklesh Jain (ChessBase India)
Chess-wise speaking: What is crossing your mind these days?
My answer above says it all! :) Let's say that my work for the ChessBase DVDs and for my few students is in the focus.
One of Pelletier's greatest chess memories is beating the World Champion
What are you currently working on in the ChessBase studio?
Chessbase has asked me to translate the DVD I've done last year in French only about the French Defense. It is a presentation and a classical repertoire for players who wish to start out with this opening.
Besides, I'm doing a part of the Masterclass DVDs about the World Champions Anand and Kramnik — the one which examines their contribution to the development of openings.
Interview: Nadja Wittmann (ChessBase)
