Opening Concepts
The opening (also called fuseki) is the first phase of a Go game. This phase determines the direction of the entire game. This article introduces basic opening concepts to help you develop proper whole-board vision.
General Direction of the Opening
Opening Objectives
The main objectives of the opening phase are:
- Claim key points: Occupy high-value positions
- Establish bases: Lay foundations for subsequent fighting
- Maintain balance: Balance territory and influence
Fundamental Go Principle
This saying explains the value of different board areas:
- Corners are most efficient (surround the most territory with the fewest stones)
- Sides are next in efficiency
- Center is least efficient
Therefore, in the opening, typically occupy corners first, then sides, and finally consider the center.
Value of Corner, Side, and Center
Why Corners Are Most Valuable
In corners, you only need two directions to form territory, making it most efficient.
| Area | Directions Needed to Surround | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Corner | 2 directions | Highest |
| Side | 3 directions | Medium |
| Center | 4 directions | Lowest |
General Opening Sequence
- Occupy corners (moves 1-4 approximately)
- Approach or defend corners (moves 5-10)
- Claim sides or develop (after move 10)
This sequence isn't absolute but reflects basic efficiency concepts.
Common Opening Positions
Star Point (4,4)
Position: 4 lines from each edge, marked with small black dots on the board.
Characteristics:
- Higher position, fast development
- Emphasizes outside influence
- Corner territory not very solid, may be invaded
Suitable style: Players who like fighting and emphasize influence
Komoku (3,4 or 4,3)
Position: 3 lines from one edge, 4 lines from the other.
Characteristics:
- Balances territory and development
- Rich variations, many joseki
- Traditionally the most common opening position
Suitable style: Works for all styles
San-san (3,3)
Position: 3 lines from each edge, the deepest corner point.
Characteristics:
- Directly secures corner territory
- Lower position, less outside influence
- Became more popular in the AI era
Suitable style: Players who emphasize territory and solid play
Other Opening Positions
| Position | Coordinates | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Mokuhazushi | 3,5 or 5,3 | Emphasizes development in one direction |
| Takamoku | 4,5 or 5,4 | Highest position, emphasizes outside influence |
Basic Opening Concepts
1. Don't Be Too Greedy
In the opening, if you defend every corner too tightly, you'll let your opponent easily seize initiative. Learn to make trade-offs.
2. Maintain Balance
A good opening should balance:
- Territory (definite area)
- Influence (external power)
- Coordination between stones
3. Watch the Whole Board
During the opening, frequently look up to see the entire board:
- Where are the big points?
- What is the opponent trying to do?
- Are my stones coordinating well?
Beginners often focus too much on local small fights and neglect big points elsewhere. Remember: in the opening phase, general direction is more important than small techniques.
4. Speed vs. Solidity Trade-off
- Playing fast: Claim more big points, but each position is less solid
- Playing solid: Each position is very strong, but opponent may take big points
Neither style is absolutely better - it depends on the specific position and personal preference.
Advice for Beginners
Start with Small Boards
- 9x9 board: No traditional opening, suitable for practicing basic fighting
- 13x13 board: Has simple opening concepts, good transition
- 19x19 board: Full opening, requires more experience
Simple Opening Choices
When first playing on 19x19:
- Play one move in each of the four corners (occupy corners)
- Use star points (4,4) for opening - simpler
- Don't rush to learn complex joseki
Observe Professional Games
Watch professional games and notice their openings:
- What positions they choose
- In what order they play
- How they evaluate big points
Summary
Core opening concepts can be summarized as:
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Corners before sides | Occupy efficient areas first |
| Trade-off balance | Can't be too greedy, must make choices |
| Whole-board vision | Frequently look at the entire board |
| Style choice | Find the approach that suits you |
There's no "standard answer" in the opening. As your skills improve, your understanding of the opening will continue to deepen. For now, the most important thing is to develop proper whole-board vision rather than memorizing many joseki.
Play more, think more, review more. Opening intuition is gradually developed through actual games.