Double Wing Attack Climbing Silver: Strategies for Balanced Play
The Double Wing Attack (相掛かり – Aigakari) is an opening that offers a variety of tactical options. One approach within this opening is the Climbing Silver system, where the rook and silver advance together in a coordinated assault. This combination can generate strong momentum in the middlegame, often leading to an advantageous position.
How to Make the Opening Moves ＆ Why
Step 1: Establishing the Double Wing Attack
In the opening, both players advance their rook pawns, setting up the Double Wing Attack formation. The typical next steps involve developing the gold generals to secure the bishops. Once the pawns clash on the rook files, the next key decision is where to reposition the rook.
There are two common options here:
- Move the rook back to the 6th rank for a more aggressive setup.
- Move it to the 8th rank for a balanced mix of offense and defense.
Placing the rook on the 6th rank (known as the “floating rook”) controls the horizontal line and prevents the opponent from exchanging pawns on that file—an important advantage.
Introducing the Climbing Silver
To launch the Climbing Silver (棒銀) attack, it’s best to pull your rook back to the 8th rank for a secure setup. Then, advance the silver piece with a combination of diagonal and forward moves, guiding it into the opponent’s camp. This is often referred to as the “UFO Silver” due to its distinctive, floating movement.
Next Moves: A Classic Development Example
Your opponent may position their rook in a floating rook setup, thinking they’ve secured control over the file.
However, once your silver reaches the 5th rank, it indicates a successful attack formation. By sacrificing the silver to clear the path, you open up an opportunity for your rook to promote, gaining a decisive advantage.
What if Your Opponent Knows How to Counter?
If your opponent is familiar with the Climbing Silver attack, they might push their bishop forward to block your silver’s advance. In such cases, it’s often best to shift from offense to defense and solidify your position.
A reliable defense in this situation is the “Strawberry Castle“, a common structure in Double Wing Attack games. From this position, you can prepare for a bishop exchange, wait for the opponent’s rook influence to diminish, or let them make the first move, setting you up for a counterattack.
In chess terms, this approach resembles a Passive Defense or Defensive Opening, like the Hedgehog System, where you create a strong, stable position and wait for the right moment to strike back.
