Pac-Man Opening Traps – How White Can Set Sneaky Tactics
The Pac-Man Opening is a tricky surprise weapon for White, often leading to sharp tactical battles. Learn how to execute it effectively and how Black can counter it.
💡Shogi: First player (Black) vs. Second player (White)
The Pac-Man Opening: A Sneaky Gambit for White
In this article, we’ll explore a fascinating surprise strategy known as the Pac-Man Opening (4. P-44). This unorthodox gambit is a rare case where White initiates an aggressive trap early in the game. Let’s break it down step by step.
How the Pac-Man Opening Works
The Pac-Man Opening begins when Black plays the natural move P-76, opening the bishop’s diagonal. Instead of playing a standard development move, White suddenly pushes P-44, offering a seemingly free pawn.
At first glance, it looks like Black can simply take it with B-44, but this is exactly what White wants! The moment Black captures the pawn, White immediately switches to the offensive.(Note: Since we are analyzing this from White’s perspective, the board is flipped for clarity.)
Step 1: The First Trap – Activating the Rook
If Black captures the pawn, White instantly moves R-42, targeting the exposed bishop. If the bishop retreats, White can charge forward with R-47+, promoting the rook and creating early chaos.
Black will likely counter this by playing B-53+, saving the bishop while forming a promoted bishop (uma). However, instead of rushing into rook promotion, White first plays P-34, opening the diagonal while attacking the lance.
At this point, Black has several defensive options. Let’s examine them one by one.
Scenario 1: Black Trades Bishop and Rook
If Black decides to capture the rook immediately, White proceeds with the standard Pac-Man sequence.
- Black exchanges pieces.
- To secure the defense, Black plays S-88.
- White responds with the devastating check B-95+.
At this point, if Black moves the king, the defensive connection on 88 is lost, allowing White to capture the silver for free with B-88+. White gains a decisive advantage.
Scenario 2: Black Defends with S-77
If Black chooses to defend with S-77, White can respond by capturing the silver immediately with B-77+.This sequence forces Black into a bad material trade, where White gains a bishop for a silver, knight, and lance, putting White ahead in development and piece count.
Scenario 3: Black’s Best Defense – Dropping a Rook
Black’s best defensive option is to drop a held rook onto 7-7 (R-77). However, this comes at a cost—Black is forced to use a major piece just to stop White’s attack.
Although this prevents immediate disaster, Black loses tempo and initiative. White can now calmly continue development with a positional advantage.
Conclusion: How to Counter the Pac-Man Opening
The best way to counter the Pac-Man Opening is to ignore it completely.
Instead of taking the bait with B-44, Black should simply continue normal development with a move like P-26. By refusing to engage with White’s trick, Black avoids the entire variation.
If White is ignored, they will likely transition into a standard Yagura or Fourth File Rook setup. In this case, Black can proceed with normal positional play without falling into any early traps.If you ever face the Pac-Man Opening, just remember: **don’t take the freedon’t take the free pawn, and you’ll be fine!
