Van Geet Opening: what should White play?

In this position from the Van Geet Opening, white typically seeks to exploit the early development of the black queen to gain central control and development tempi. The engine-recommended continuation is e4, which is the most popular choice in 40.5% of the 89,609 recorded games and carries a significant evaluation of +1.87. This move establishes a presence in the center while preparing to harass the f5 with further development.

The Central Push with e4

The move e4 is the primary theoretical response, favored in over 41,000 recorded games. By placing a pawn on e4, white prepares to challenge the black queen's position on f5 while opening lines for the light-squared bishop. The main line continues e4 Qa5 d4 Nf6 Bd2 c6, where white gains a space advantage and forces the black queen to retreat to a less active square.

Flexible Development with Nf3

The second most frequent choice is Nf3, played in 23.8% of games with an engine evaluation of +1.91. This move focuses on kingside development and controls the d4 and e5 squares without immediately committing the central pawns. The resulting play often mirrors the e4 lines, as seen in the sequence Nf3 Qa5 d4 Nf6 Bd2 c6, maintaining a solid structural advantage for white.

Alternative Strategic Approaches

White may also opt for g3, a move seen in 18.5% of games (19,000 records) with an evaluation of +0.77. This fianchetto system aims for long-term pressure on the long diagonal, often leading to lines such as g3 Nc6 d4 e5 Bh3 Qh5. While less aggressive than the central strikes, it provides a stable positional foundation. The move d4 remains a viable third option, played in 6.1% of games, leading to a +1.33 evaluation and central solidification.