7 Best Chess Openings for Black Against d4 (2025 Updated)

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The move 1.d4 is one of the most popular choices for White, especially among positional players who actually aim in order to control the center, develop steadily, and apply long-term pressure to force the opponent to make mistakes in chess.
As Black, if you’re not prepared, it’s easy to end up in passive or inferior positions. That’s why choosing the best chess opening for Black against 1.d4 is essential.
It’s not just to survive the early game, but also to fight equality, or even seize the initiative. No matter if you’re just a beginner or an experienced club player, having the right openings in your repertoire can give you confidence and consistency.
In this blog, we’ll explore 7 best openings for Black against d4, including strategies, traps, pros and cons, along with suggestions based on your playing style.
Memorize Chess Openings: 5-Step Guide to Win More Games
Master the first moves with ease. This 5-step guide will help you memorize chess openings faster and win more games confidently.
Master the Vant-Kruijs: A Rare but Powerful Chess Opening
Master the Vant Krujis Opening (1.e3) – a flexible, surprise weapon for strategic players. Ideal for blitz, rapid, and avoiding heavy theory lines.
Top Black Openings Against 1.e4: Openings Every Player Should Know
Master the best Black openings against 1.e4. Learn top defenses like the Sicilian, French & Caro-Kann to boost your strategy and win more games confidently.
Bird Opening in Chess
Master Bird’s Opening in chess with key strategies, traps like From’s Gambit, and top variations. Learn how to dominate with 1.f4 as White or defend as Black.
Top 9 Chess Openings Played by Magnus Carlsen
Explore 9 openings played by Magnus Carlsen including Ruy López, Queen’s Gambit, Open Scotch, King’s Indian Attack. Learn his strategy & boost your game today!
