I will use the Caro-Kann as my example because it is my response to e4. 

I was going over a game I had just played when a friend of mine (Nick, rating about 2300) came by and started reviewing my game. After about the 9th move in this variation Nick kept stating almost on every move (do you think castling would be an option here) at first I just ignored his suggestions and continued on with the game review but after the 4th suggestion to castle I finally looked up a said I don't have to castle. After a lengthy discussion we agreed to disagree on this subject. The game is not important (but for the curious it ended in a draw and white did miss a combination that I had overlooked that would have allow him to catch the king in the center, so much for following my own rules :)). However, the ideas may be of value to some. 

In some variations of the Caro-Kann (there are exceptions) black can delay castling for a long period of time. This has some advantages in the sense that white has a problem deciding on moves because he doesn't t know where to start his attack. Also the appearance of the board can give the illusion that black has gained some valuable tempos. 

Normally what can happen (not always) white will play non-committal moves because he is not sure where your going so he is cautious and even if he does play aggressive moves (correctly, to try and punish you) you can always safeguard your position if you keep alert. 

Leaving the king in the center can be done safely if you remember certain ideas (remember I said Caro-Kann, the pawn structure is the point or key). 

Watch for sacs or exchanges on d5 or e6 and closely watch the squares c4, e4 and f5. The only way white can punish you is to open up the position when the king is in the center (The Art of Attack) but knowing this should keep you alert, also if white allows this, start exchanging your pieces to lessen the attacking chances of white (a standard idea). 

The point I am trying to make is when you're looking for ideas (new or old) try taking an idea and add a twist or curve to the idea, if it works great -  if not, start looking for something different.

About the Author

I don't play on to many live sites anymore however, my rating on USChess Live for standard is about 2248 and speed is about 2305. 

I have been spending a lot of my time trying to establish a turn based online chess association (watch for some information on this next month). Please note I stated turn based not correspondence, there is a difference. Thanks.

Copyright 2006 by B. Bell, all rights reserved.

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