Instead of trying to only think about ways to open the position, why arent you learning how to play closed, and semi-closed positions?
I dont understand why people only want to study and learn half of the game.
how to open up d4 game
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There are tons of ways to open the game also in "closed" games. The tarrasch defence comes to mind. It's a perfectly sound line(not sure you can say the same about the englund), where black gets free and active development at the espense of an isolated pawn (in other words: an isolani position). 1.d4 d5 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 c5 is where the line starts. The setup is playable against 1.d4,1.nf3 and 1.c4; white best chance in all the 3 lines is to arrive at the same mainline position. You will get a dynamic game, where the winner will invariably be the one who has better understanding of IQP positions. If he likes to play very closed games, then it's unlikely to be comfortable here.
UnratedGamesOnly, it makes sense that you study open positions first, simply because the vast majority of the "closed positions" can be opened in some way, while it's really hard to find an open position which can become closed in nature. It's a basic instructional principle first formulated by Reti 90 years ago and trusted even today.
whatever you play, don't play the Englund.....
You are giving up a pawn for free. And in the Soller Gambit line 1.d4 e5 2.dxe5 Nc6 3.Nf3 f6, white can play 4.e4 and after 4...fxe5 5.Bc4 +/-
Over the board I keep playing an guy who is a great poistional player and is willing to grind it out for hours. When I have the white pieces I have noticed that in open positions I have the advantage.
Question is there a sound or semi sound way to open the game up. We are both under 1800 I am willing to give up a pawn or more for openlines and an attack on the kingside. The Englund the only opening I know that does this. but are there others
?This is always his opening. Any advice?