Few would disagree that the opening is one of the most daunting phases of the game for newcomers to chess. There are literally hundreds of different lines, many with bizarre-sounding names, and some of these include twenty or so moves of theory. What is an aspiring chess player supposed to do: memorize countless variations from mammoth encyclopedias? Don't panic! In Discovering Chess Openings, John Emms argues that studying openings doesn't have to be hard work at all; indeed it can be both enjoyable and enlightening. The key to successful opening play is not simply learning lines off by heart; it's the understanding of the basic principles. In this book you are guided through the vital themes: swift development, central control and king safety. An appreciation of these principles and their many offshoots will actually allow you to recreate and discover opening theory, giving you the opportunity to choose the most suitable lines to play in your games. This book is a complete introduction to opening play, written by an opening expert, ideal for improving players. - Back cover.