EPTOn March 26 2013 14:15 mmp wrote:
It's not just my opinion. Beginners can study opening lines that develop pieces safely; you aren't typically going to get destroyed in the opening stage by an equal opponent (you may end up at a disadvantage, but it's the middlegame where things fall apart). Endgame is probably the most critical stage of the game, but it is something you can study analytically, especially with the help of computers.
It's not just my opinion. Beginners can study opening lines that develop pieces safely; you aren't typically going to get destroyed in the opening stage by an equal opponent (you may end up at a disadvantage, but it's the middlegame where things fall apart). Endgame is probably the most critical stage of the game, but it is something you can study analytically, especially with the help of computers.
That might be true at low levels, but claiming that the middle game is where the true skill of a player shows just doesn't hold as a general statement. Every stage of the game allows you to outplay your opponent. The opening isn't just about memorising lines and the endgame is about more than technique. Kramnik will be remembered as an opening and endgame expert, but he is still maybe the greatest player of his generation. Carlsen continues to beat top GMs in seemingly drawn endgames. Don't undervalue the importance and depth of the opening and the endgame, they deserve love too.
