The Durkin's Attack arises after 1.Na3 and falls under ECO code A00. Placing the knight on the rim gives it minimal influence over the board, and the move does almost nothing to improve White's position — it essentially invites Black to choose how to set up. Black can comfortably seize the center with 1...e5 or 1...d5. After 1...e5, White's most purposeful continuation is 2.Nc4, targeting the e5 pawn. As the Oxford Companion to Chess notes, this opening was "played in over-the-board and correspondence games by Robert Durkin (1923-) of New Jersey, but rarely by anyone else." Chess author Eric Schiller dubbed it the Sodium Attack, since "Na" is the chemical symbol for sodium. With 462,368 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a rarely played opening.
Statistics
Based on 462,368 Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 40.7%
- Black wins: 53.2%
- Draws: 6.1%
Interestingly, Black scores well in this opening, suggesting it offers strong counterplay.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Durkin's Attack is through practice. On Chessiverse, you can play chess against computer opponents that specialize in this opening. Our AI bots range from beginner to grandmaster level, each with unique playing styles — from aggressive attackers to solid defenders. Choose a bot that matches your rating and work your way up as you master the opening's key ideas.
