The Hippopotamus Defence

The Hippopotamus Defence is an English-language chess opening book for players who want a practical black repertoire against a wide range of first moves, built around a low-theory approach that is easy to revisit and study in stages.

What this book covers

Alessio de Santis shows how to use the Hippopotamus Defence against 1.e4, 1.d4, 1.c4 and 1.f4, as well as against systems such as the Colle, London, Trompowsky and Réti. The opening is based on a characteristic double fianchetto setup that looks restrained at first, but is designed to support active counterplay.

The book takes a practical route through the repertoire. It starts with the basic moves, key strategic ideas and typical manoeuvres, then moves on to the more important lines and to the Semi-Hippopotamus for use against selected white plans. That makes it a useful guide for club players who prefer clear ideas and structures rather than long theoretical memorisation.

Why choose this repertoire?

The Hippopotamus Defence works well both as a surprise weapon and as a main black repertoire. Its strength lies in the way the material is organised: the ideas are explained clearly, the structure is easy to follow, and it is straightforward to return to the sections you need when preparing a game.

If you like opening systems that give you flexibility while still offering real counterattacking chances, The Hippopotamus Defence is a practical choice.

Edition details

• Language: English
• Format: paperback
• Page count: 336
• Author: Alessio de Santis
• Opening: The Hippopotamus Defence
• Coverage: black repertoire against 1.e4, 1.d4, 1.c4, 1.f4 and systems such as the Colle, London, Trompowsky and Réti
• Related system: Semi-Hippopotamus

Key details

• Product type: chess opening book
• Opening: The Hippopotamus Defence
• Author: Alessio de Santis
• Language: English
• Format: paperback
• Page count: 336
• Piece setup: double fianchetto
• Related system: Semi-Hippopotamus