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Lasker Simul Special

+83%
A001.g3 h5
Mar 25, 2026
TL;DR

interesting move. Black wants to advance the pawn to h4 to open the h-file.

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Chessiverse TeamOpening Guides

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Lasker Simul Special: A Complete Guide
Lasker Simul Special - Opening Moves
Summary

The Lasker Simul Special arises after 1.g3 h5 and falls under ECO code A00. This is a curious and unconventional response where Black's idea is to push the pawn further to h4, aiming to open the h-file for potential attacking chances against White's kingside. With 409,219 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a rarely played opening.

History and Notable Players

It arises from the Benko's Opening.

Statistics

Based on 409,219 Lichess games across all rating levels:

  • White wins: 46%
  • Black wins: 49.3%
  • Draws: 4.8%

Interestingly, Black scores well in this opening, suggesting it offers strong counterplay.

Practice on Chessiverse

The best way to learn the Lasker Simul Special 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.

Quick Facts

Main Line1.g3 h5
DifficultyBeginner
Parent OpeningBenko's Opening
Style

Unorthodox openings deviate from classical principles to surprise opponents and lead the game into unfamiliar territory. They can be highly effective when the opponent is unprepared.

409,219games on Lichess
46%
4.8%
49.3%
White wins Draws Black wins

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid)

Most Popular At2500
SharpnessSharp

Popularity by Rating

Percentage of all games at each rating bracket that feature this opening.

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid games)

Theory Adherence by Rating

How often players choose the single most popular move at this position. Higher = more predictable play.

White to move after the opening line

Popularity Over Time

Share of all Lichess blitz + rapid games featuring this opening, by year.

Top Moves by Rating

White to move after the opening line

RatingMost Popular2nd3rd
400Bg259.7%Nf38.7%b36.1%
1000Bg272.8%Nf35.7%b34.5%
1200Bg277.1%h44.5%Nf34.1%
1400Bg280.3%h44.3%b33.9%
1600Bg281.7%h46%b33.2%
1800Bg277.1%h410.3%Nf34.1%
2000Bg267.4%h414.9%Nf38.7%
2200Bg254.6%Nf317.8%h415.1%
2500Bg247.4%Nf322.2%h412.1%

Popularity by Time Control

Bullet
0.03%879K
Blitz
0.01%362K
Rapid
<0.01%47K
2% more decisive in bullet

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lasker Simul Special?

The Lasker Simul Special begins with 1.g3 h5 and is classified under ECO code A00. interesting move.

Is the Lasker Simul Special good for beginners?

The Lasker Simul Special can be played at any level. Beginners should focus on understanding the key strategic ideas rather than memorizing long theoretical lines. Our AI bots at various rating levels provide a great way to practice the opening concepts.

What are the win rates for the Lasker Simul Special?

Across 409,219 Lichess games, White wins 46% of the time, Black wins 49.3%, and 4.8% are drawn.

How can I practice the Lasker Simul Special?

On Chessiverse, you can practice the Lasker Simul Special by playing against our 600+ AI bots. Each bot has a unique playing style and opening repertoire, so you can find the perfect sparring partner for any level.

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Amar Opening: Gambit: A Complete Guide

Amar Opening: Gambit

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Written by

Chessiverse
Chessiverse TeamOpening Guides

Expert chess content backed by opening theory and our database of 600+ AI bots with unique playing styles and opening repertoires.

Practice This Opening on Chessiverse

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