Openings
What is a country move in chess?
- Opening
- Plans
- Move Order
Country move is an opening term: a disparaging term for a move considered unsophisticated, especially an unnecessary single-step advance of the rook's pawn in the opening. The term was popular in London in the late 19th century. Learn the plan, pawn structure, and typical piece placement behind the term, not just the name.
What to look for on the board
- Development, center control, and king safety.
- The pawn break each side wants.
- Whether a move creates a familiar structure.
Related terms
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