A game of Chess consists of three phases: the Opening; the Middle game; and
the End game. It need not, however, pass through all three stages, but may
come to a conclusion at either of them.
THE OPENING is the development of the pieces. A quick and judicious
development of the forces is half the battle won. From a mistake in the
beginning of a game--assuming both players to be of equal strength--it is
difficult to recover. The Openings, therefore, should be studied carefully.
THE MIDDLE GAME is entirely a matter of practice, and its proper management
can only be acquired by experience. Both players are here thrown upon their
own resources, as the analysis does not reach beyond the opening.
THE END GAME is a study in itself, and one which will repay the most
careful attention. There are certain positions which occur frequently at
the end of a game; these have been systematically arranged by eminent
specialists, and may be committed to memory; but the larger number (like
the Middle game) depend upon ingenuity and individual skill.
The Openings are divided into _Open Games_--_i.e._, where White plays 1. P
to K 4, and Black replies 1. ... P to K 4; and _Close Games_--_i.e._, where
White's first move is any other than 1. P to K 4. The _Open Games_ will be
first dealt with.
The first opening which we shall describe is the Giuoco Piano, "the slow,
or steady, opening," so {354} called because it is a quiet strategical
development of the forces.
The game is presented to the reader just as if it were played over, and
explained by the professor over the board. The reasons for each move are
given in language adapted to the perception of the student who plays a game
of chess for the first time.