4-4 point low approach low extension, slide, pincer, 3-3

    Keywords: Joseki

This is a follow-up article for the 4-4 point low approach low extension, slide, pincer

[Diagram]

Two ways

The idea of the original pincer of black+circle is to gain influence. There's a forceful way to do so at a, involving a ladder potential, and a more moderate way at b.

[Diagram]

Main line

These plays are still the main line, though increasingly B2 is played directly at B4. White plays W5 for ladder aji.

After these moves, Black needs a further play here. If the ladder works Black can play at b (and then will need to capture shortly).



It seems, from pro games, that this is a subtle discussion:

  • this variation is played even when the ladder is bad for Black, and Black must play a now;
  • even if the ladder is good for Black, Black may anyway play a.

Naturally the evaluation of the position after Black at a must depend on the prospects in a fight if White's cutting stone escapes.

On the left side, black c might be a useful sente move, answered with white d.

[Diagram]

Staircase joseki

W3 leads to the 4-4 Point staircase joseki

[Diagram]

AI invention

The forcing move and next allowing hane at the head of two is recommended by AI such as Leela Zero. After B10, White can tenuki.

[Diagram]

Attach directly

Omitting the exchange B2-W3 in the mainline, Black proceeds directly with B2 here. W5 removes the ladder potential. After W7, Black can play a or b.


This is a copy of the living page "4-4 point low approach low extension, slide, pincer, 3-3" at Sensei's Library.
(OC) 2024 the Authors, published under the OpenContent License V1.0.
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