Hey there everyone. I wanna get a new opening repertoire (just 2-5 moves or so) for White but I don't know whether i should go for a closed game opening or a hypermodern opening.

More specifically, im thinking about the Nimzo-Larsen Attack, 1. b3. But I would also like to play the Queen's Gambit or other openings based on 1. d4.

I've been an 1.e4 player all the time so my strategic abilities are quite limited. I dread over solid openings for White because most games derived from them take so long to finish. However I am not much better with hypermodern openings. Since I've been a centre-control player all this while, I fear giving it up would cost me the game. Often my Bishop has nothing to do either because I'm either blocking it or my opponent's pawns are.

Often I find myself stuck either way. With Closed Games, i often don't know how to continue. On the other hand, with Hypermoderns, I tend to have problems developing to resourceful squares.

I also have another question. In games involving players with ratings of 1200-1700, which of the two openings enjoy more success? It would be great if you know the reasons behind the answer.

Any idea would be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Whatever lets you put to use memorized themes and ideas to effect. I think that closed games (1. d4 d5) have the most success at low/average levels, but I never cared for statistics.

About a year ago, I had a similar problem. I decided to play b3 as a way to confuse the opponent. However, unless you really know what your doing in the middle game, I found I tried to force things while my opponent just developed normally and usually won. I don't know how strong a player you are but I don't recommend 1. b3 to people who are not used to play hypermodern openings.

1.d4 will result in different types in positions to 1.e4 but with a little practice it is very solid.

I agree with Perseus in that 1.d5 probably has more success at those ratings and probably in general.

That sounds reasonable. I would to know though, if we do not get used to hypermodern openings now, then at what level should we start practicing it?

Also, what would be a good way to start familiarising with 1. d4?

Why do you think you need to play hypermodern openings? Several of the top chess players in history have never played anything hypermodern. At the very least, though, you should have a firm understanding of classical openings before you even consider switching to hypermodern openings. Get a rating over 1800 in OTB tournaments (not inflated internet ratings), then ask the question again.

As for how to learn an opening, the best way is to dive in and start playing it.

--Fromper

Would you rather win in 50 moves or lose in 20?

Play 1. e4 and play the KIA against the French, Sicilian, and Pirc/Modern. Or as white always play 1. e4, and play a hyper-modern openings as Black.

Try prying your eyes out of their sockets. It should be about the same as 1. d4.