Dawww, you can’t stop their love! Do I need to memorize openings to be a chess player? Semi serious question.
Not really for a while, I think. I’m around 1400 online and only know like 3-4 moves into a few of my favorite openings.
You really only need to focus on chess “principles” to get started, like why it’s good to control the middle, and developing all of your pieces before moving one twice, etc.
See, this is already helping me.
I love how all the replies to this comment disagree with each other.
Me too!
No, just be a monster at every other aspect and when you reach Super-GM level you’ll need to memorize
You absolutely need to as early as possible for a massive advantage. Pick 3 for white and 3 for black. Look for books, speak ideally to your local chess club.
I’ve been playing chess for almost two decades and I know zero (0) openings
Funny, I love openings too!
