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Gomoku lessons · Advanced · Step 11
Openings: The First Three Moves
In Renju (the official tournament rules), Black's move 1 goes in the exact center, White's move 2 goes right next to it (direct) or diagonally next to it (indirect), and Black's move 3 goes inside the central 5×5 area. The 26 shapes these first three moves can make are called the "26 openings," and each has a name, like Kagetsu or Ugetsu. Kagetsu and Ugetsu are famous openings where a winning line for Black has been worked out, so tournaments add extra rules to keep Black from getting too big an advantage. Games on this site also use Renju-style rules with forbidden moves for Black. Put Black's move 1 in the center, then try starting with Kagetsu if White plays right next to it, or Ugetsu if White plays diagonally.
Puzzle 1
White played directly above (direct). Where does Black's move 3 go to make Kagetsu? (Black to move)
Show answer and explanation
The green circle marks the answer. Kagetsu (花月) puts Black's move 3 diagonal to Black's move 1 and right next to White's move 2. The two black stones touch diagonally and press White from the side. Left and right are mirror images, so they count as the same opening.
Puzzle 2
White played diagonally (indirect). Where does Black's move 3 go to make Ugetsu? (Black to move)
Show answer and explanation
The green circle marks the answer. Ugetsu (浦月) puts Black's move 3 diagonally next to Black's move 1, one space away from White's move 2 (two spaces below or to the left of White). The two black stones wrap around White at an angle, giving Black room to spread out. The two spots are mirror images, so they count as the same opening.