The Tricky Tromp

IM Richard Palliser outlines a combative Trompowsky (1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5) repertoire for White. The lines analysed deal with all of Black’s common responses.

A perennial favourite of creative players, the ‘Tromp’ sets Black complex problems from the very beginning. It has been played by Anand in a World Championship match and used as a surprise weapon by Carlsen, Nakamura, Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa and many other top players. While offbeat, the Trompowsky is difficult to face.

One colourful variation outlined within is the audacious 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5 Ne4 3. h4!? – a favourite of ‘Mr Trompowsky’, the four-time British Champion, Julian Hodgson. Leading to unusual and rich middlegame play, this variation maintains its venom in 2024.

IM Richard Palliser is a highly experienced chess writer and opening expert, having worked closely with Gawain Jones and Simon Williams. He is also the editor of CHESS Magazine and the author of numerous books, including Starting Out: The Trompowsky Attack in 2009.

Reviews

Carsten Hansen (American Chess Magazine)
“For those players who are looking for an interesting way to play 1.d4 as White, I would suggest that you look in the direction of this book, because it can easily serve for several years without getting outdated.”

GM Matthew Sadler (New In Chess magazine)
“Palliser is a consistently conscientious and inventive author, and this book meets his usual high standards. It offers plenty of interesting suggestions for further investigation alongside well-thought-out main lines. After reading it, I had an overwhelming urge to try out some of these lines in bullet, blitz, and Duolingo(!) chess, so it definitely left a lively and stimulating impression on me! ”