The Hippopotamus Attack is an unorthodox, hyper-flexible opening formation used by White. The aim is to keep the pawn structure fluid while developing the pieces to create a compact, sometimes asymmetrical formation that can quickly transition into various forms, depending on how Black reacts. Black's setup in this position is fairly traditional and solid, focusing on centralized pawn control and piece development.
Overview
White has played the moves a3, b3, c3, d3, e3, f3, and g3, setting up what is known as the Hippopotamus structure. The central idea here is that White is maintaining a compact, defensive position, allowing them to be flexible in their play. Black has responded with standard developing moves, and the position is open to multiple plans that capitalize on Black's more classical pawn and piece deployment.
Best Moves
The Industrious ♙e4
The move ♙e4 is aimed at opening the center. By advancing the pawn to e4, Black strikes at White's central pawn structure and challenges White's setup directly. It puts pressure on the center, forcing White to make decisions about pawn exchanges or further defensive moves. Black's pawn on e4 can be tactically supported with ♖Re8 and ♘Ne7 later.
The Tenacious ♙a5
Advancing the a-pawn with ♙a5 is strategic here because it aims to create space on the queenside. This move helps Black to possibly undermine White's pawn chain. The pawn can proceed with ♙a4, pushing its influence and troubling any expansion moves that White might contemplate on these squares.
The Humble ♖Re8
With ♖Re8, Black prepares to support the pawn advancement in the center. This rook pivot ensures that Black's central play is robust and adaptable, and it's primed to move along the e-file if needed. It is crucial for amplifying Black's control over these key squares and setting up potential tactics involving ♙e4 later.
The Reliable ♗Be6
Developing the bishop to e6 provides solid backing for the d5 pawn, ready to reinforce it and targeting the queenside squares through future exchanges or tactical simplifications. This move keeps Black’s options open in the center while stepping up protective measures for the kingside with possibilities of future pieces along these diagonals.
The Mindful ♕Qe7
Playing ♕Qe7 activates the queen on a less-contested square, preparing to support central operations or regroup towards more tactical positions. The queen on e7 can connect the rooks and lend support to central pawns, while also allowing shifts in focus towards a kingside attack or queenside pressure if needed.
Important Alternatives
The Patient ♙h5
This move ♙h5 is a strong waiting move, showing intent to expand on the kingside or support possible preparation for an h-file infiltration. It's a preparatory move that controls the g4 square and begins pressure that can lead to future kingside attacks if White opts to overextend or give up the h5 control.
The Structural ♙b5
Utilizing ♙b5 signifies an attempt to gain more control over the queenside squares, which can lead to pressure against the c3 pawn structure. It sets the board for tactical threats on the queenside, leaning on the idea of expanding control and pressure on this side.
Critical Mistakes
The Over-ambitious ♙d4
Attempting to advance in the center with ♙d4 prematurely risks leaving Black overextended and vulnerable to counterplay from White. It opens up lines too early, giving White the opportunity to contest those central squares fiercely and potentially gain tactical edges if Black isn't vigilant in the follow-ups.
Conclusion
The Hippopotamus Attack is a unique and intriguing opening that offers flexibility and defensive solidity to White. Black has multiple strategic options to counter this setup, focusing on central occupation and queenside expansion. Moves like ♙e4 demonstrate the importance of central space and control. Meanwhile, preparatory moves such as ♙h5 and ♙b5 illustrate commitment to the flanks and rear tactical setup.