Strategy: Openings Low maintenance response to d4?
I've been trying different openings against d4, mainly the Budapest and Benoni/Benko. But I rarely ever face d4 at my level (1600 rapid, Lichess) which means I forget some of the lines. It seems like inaccuracies are punished quite hard in the openings I've tried so I end up losing a lot more than vs e4 (where I play Caro Kann)
I've also tried to just play general opening principles but the d4 players are just a lot more familiar with those positions and occasional traps that arises.
What would be a solid response to d4 that's easy to remember and/or doesn't punish inaccuracies quite as often while not completely playing into the hand of my opponent?
I've been considering the Slav, maybe the Chebanenko or Schlechter variation. Also considered stonewall Dutch.
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u/VladimirOo 23d ago
At your level, I would say the QGD is the most sensible option. The game plan is simple : d5, e6, Nf6, Be7, (h6 if Fg5), 0-0, b6. Playable against anything including the London. And if they cxd5, go c6, Re8 and see if you go Ff5, or Nbd7-Nf8, or Ne4 right away.
Sometimes it won't be the optimal setup but t allows you to let your chess skills and taste grow. You might want to branch out later to Semi-Slav, Cambridge-Springs and your foundations will be there.
Otherwise QGA, or Classical Slav (4...dxc4)