How to Defeat the Static Rook Anaguma with the Fourth File Rook Opening
Learn how to launch an early attack with the Fourth File Rook strategy to stop your opponent from building a strong Anaguma (Bear-in-the-Hole) castle.
Step 1: Using Early Aggression to Prevent Anaguma
The Fourth File Rook strategy is usually about solid defense and counterattacks. However, when your opponent aims for a long-term battle with a strong defensive structure like Anaguma, it can be difficult to find an effective attacking plan.
This guide will show you how to take the initiative as the Fourth File Rook player against Static Rook Anaguma. The key is to disrupt your opponent’s setup before their defense becomes too solid.
Step 2: Delaying Your King’s Castling
A key technique is to delay full castling into the Mino formation. Instead of completing Mino Castle early, keep your king at K-39 for now. Move S-38 first, then K-39.
This gives you flexibility based on your opponent’s strategy:
- If they go for an early Climbing Silver Attack (Bōgin), you can move K-28 for a deeper defense.
- If they proceed with Anaguma, you can start your early attack before their fortress is complete.
Step 3: Testing with Edge Pawns
A great way to probe your opponent’s intentions is by pushing an edge pawn early. Play P-16 to see how they react.
- If they respond with P-14, they may be preparing for a quick attack instead of Anaguma.
- If they ignore it and continue castling, they are likely aiming for Anaguma.
Step 4: Jumping the Knight Early
Start positioning your pieces aggressively:
- Push P-46 and P-36, then jump the knight to N-37.
- Your next idea is N-45, threatening both their bishop and silver.
- If they block with P-44, their bishop’s diagonal is now restricted.
Now, take control of the board by opening your bishop’s diagonal with P-65.At this point, if your opponent plays L-12, their Anaguma strategy is confirmed.
Step 5: Launching the Attack
Now that Anaguma is confirmed, it’s time to attack!
- Jump your knight forward with N-25, forcing their bishop to move.
- If they retreat the bishop to B-24, don’t rush with P-45 yet. Instead, prepare by moving your rook to R-48.
- This avoids a potential bishop sacrifice with B*57, which could be a check.
- Once they commit to Anaguma by moving their king to K-11, immediately break through with P-45!
If they hesitate and play S-22, their defensive structure will weaken significantly.
Step 6: Breaking the Anaguma Fortress
Anaguma is a strong defense, but once breached, it collapses quickly.
- If your opponent counterattacks by trading their bishop with B*57, don’t panic. Your position remains stable.
- Meanwhile, you can press forward with P-43+, forcing a silver capture.
If they misstep, like moving their silver to S-62, you can immediately force checkmate.
Final Blow: Delivering Checkmate
At this point, you can execute a simple forced mate sequence:
- B*22+—sacrificing the bishop to open their king’s escape route.
- Your opponent has no effective defense, and their king is trapped.
Anaguma players often overestimate their fortress’s durability. By practicing these aggressive strategies, you’ll learn to quickly spot winning tactics, even several moves ahead.
Conclusion: Mastering the Fourth File Rook Attack
Breaking Anaguma requires precise timing and aggression. By delaying your king’s castling, testing your opponent with edge pawns, and launching a sharp knight attack, you can disrupt their fortress before it becomes impenetrable.
Keep practicing these attack patterns, and soon, you’ll be dismantling Anaguma with confidence!
If you’re unfamiliar with Bogin (Climbing Silver Attack), check out this dedicated guide to explore its variations and countermeasures.
