The Philidor is a dynamic and underrated answer to White's popular opening move, 1 e4. Recently it has acquired something of a cult following amongst certain Grandmasters; its supporters include the French number one Etienne Bacrot and the former European Champion Liviu Dieter Nisipeanu. One of its major selling points is its flexibility - Black even has a choice of two opening moves. It also suits a wide variety of playing styles; games can lead to sharp, tactical duels as well as strategic, positional battles.

In this definitive guide, Christian Bauer, himself a renowned expert on the Philidor, uncovers the secrets behind this intriguing opening. Using his own experience and other top-class Philidor games, Bauer identifies both the critical main lines and the tricky sidelines. He also examines the key tactical and strategic ideas for both White and Black, while highlighting crucial issues such as move-order options - a major weapon for the modern Grandmaster.

• Comprehensive coverage of a provocative opening
• Packed with original analysis
• Ideal for club and tournament players

Content:
005 Introduction

Part 1: 1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 d6

010 1 Early Deviations

044 2 3 d4 exd4: Introduction and Larsen's Variation

083 3 Antoshin's Variation: Introduction

109 4 Antoshin's Variation: 6 Bf4

Part 2: 1 e4 d6 2 d4 Nf6

132 5 Early Deviations and 3 f3

147 6 3 Bd3

264 7 3 Nc3 e5

275 8 3 Nc3 Nbd7: Introduction and 4 f4

197 9 3 Nc3 Nbd7 4 g4

Part 3: The Philidor Hanham Variation (1 e4 d6 2 d4 Nf6 3 Nc3 Nbd7 4 Nf3 e5)

207 10 Introduction and 5 g4

218 11 5 Bc4: Introduction and Bxf7+ Lines

232 12 Main Line: 7 Qe2 and 7 a4

247 13 Main Line: 8 Re1 without 8...b6

280 14 Main Line: 8 Re1 b6

299 Final Thoughts

301 Index of Variations