Eishun Kamaitachi Trap – A Deadly 19 Moves

The Eishun Style Kamaitachi is a surprise tactic, often considered an Opening Trap, that guarantees a win for White in just 19 moves. If you want to avoid being caught off guard, it’s essential to learn this opening.

Key Opening Moves

The first move, 7-6 Pawn, is a common opening, but on move 3, White surprises the opponent with the unique 4-8 Silver. This is a characteristic move in the Eishun style, where White doesn’t bother defending the 8th file pawn early on.

While your opponent naturally develops their rook by pushing the pawn, you continue moving your silver piece up the board, seemingly ignoring your opponent’s moves. You may wonder, “Is this really safe? The opponent’s rook is getting aggressive!”

The Surprising Counterattack

However, White’s plan is to exchange pawns on the rook file, leading to an unexpected Bishop Exchange, and immediately launching a Bishop Drop — a key part of the Eishun-style surprise counter.

Though tactics like this are now commonly seen with strategies like Cheerful Central Rook, they were not widely known when this method was first developed. Back then, it worked like a charm, surprising many opponents.

Securing the Win

As the game continues, Black pushes the rook forward, but it’s already too late. White promotes the bishop, captures material, and finishes with a decisive 5-5 Knight Drop, leaving Black with no way to escape. By this point, White’s victory is assured.

In just 19 moves, White secures a commanding position. As long as you avoid making any significant mistakes, this strategy guarantees a win.