Charles' Opening

Charles' Opening, named after the British player and writer Charles Williams, answers 1...e5 with 2. b3, preparing Bb2 to aim at e5 along the long diagonal. The plan sidesteps heavily analyzed lines such as the Ruy Lopez and the Scotch, but it spends a tempo without developing a minor piece or preparing castling. Black therefore equalizes without difficulty, though a quick Bb2 combined with Nf3 can put real pressure on e5. The engine gives Black a slight edge, and on Lichess Black scores better than White.

The most frequent reply is 2...Nc6, the Fine Defense, which often transposes after 3. Bb2 Nf6. The main line is 2...Nf6, where 3. Bb2 is the Classical Variation and the most thoroughly analyzed branch. Against it, Black can take the pawn with 3...Nxe4, or can develop with 3...Bc5 or 3...Nc6. The alternative, 3. Nf3, is the Wells Variation. Further choices include 2...Bc5, the Bishop's Defense, and the dubious 2...f5, the Cincinnati Gambit. White can accept that gambit with 3. exf5 or decline it with 3. d4, 3. Bb2 or 3. Nc3.