XI
Game, Close.—A “close” game is one wherein the development both of pieces and Pawns is mainly of a conservative or non-committal nature, the Pawns being very cautiously advanced, and the pieces mainly massed behind them. The term “close” is used to designate this class of openings, because, as a rule, for many moves the board presents a crowded appearance, owing to the massing of the pieces and Pawns, and the few exchanges effected. Great nicety is required in playing the “close” game, so that when the time does come for dissolving the close position, the pieces may occupy commanding positions.
Game, Open.—An “open game” is one wherein the opening moves are of a more immediately attacking nature, and where the pieces are more quickly marched to the front. The game is termed “open” because the board, as a rule, soon presents an open appearance. Pieces and Pawns are often got rid of early, and attack and defence embarked on at an early stage. Formerly all games commencing 1 P K 4 on each side were classed as open, and all games, such as the French, etc., wherein one or both players adopted other opening moves were classed as “close.” This is, however, now given up, for as a matter of fact, many French defences develop into very “open” games indeed, whilst games commencing 1 P K 4, P K 4 often early take on a “close” character.
“Hole,” A.—This is a modern term greatly used by Mr. Steinitz, who may be considered as the “great apostle” of what is called the “modern school” of chess. As used by him, a “hole” means any square on the third rank left unguarded by a Pawn during the developing or opening moves. For example, if a player having advanced both his K P and Q P, should follow this up by advancing his K B P, or his Q B P, in each case he creates a “hole”; in one instance at K 3, in the other at Q 3. These “holes” are regarded by modern theorists as very dangerous, for an adverse piece can often be posted with great advantage on the unguarded square.