Beginner Opening Repertoire

Openings with natural piece development, clear plans, and minimal theory. Start with the Italian Game or London System, build good habits, and worry about mainline theory once you pass 1500 ELO. Every line is drillable with spaced repetition.

Want the reasoning behind each pick? Read our guide to the best chess openings for beginners.

For Black· B01

Scandinavian Defense

1.e4 d5

The fastest way to challenge e4. Direct, tactical, and easy to learn.

For Black· C20

Wayward Queen Attack

1.e4 e5 2.Qh5

White's queen comes out on move two. Defend e5 and f7, then develop with tempo on the queen and take over the game.

For White· C50–C59

Italian Game

1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4

The fastest-developing 1.e4 opening. Aim the bishop at f7 and play for the attack.

For White· C44

Ponziani Opening

1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.c3

The surprise weapon. Prepare d4 and catch Black off-guard.

For White· C23–C24

Bishop's Opening

1.e4 e5 2.Bc4

Aim the bishop at f7 from move 2. Bypass Nf3 and dictate the middlegame structure.

For White· D02

London System

1.d4 d5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Bf4

The ultimate low-maintenance opening. One setup against everything.