Hi.
Some people think that it is impossible to achieve an easy draw against top engines of today, but, actually, there is nothing simpler than that.
When playing white, an easy draw could be achieved, for example, in the following variation of the Ruy Lopez: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Bc6 dc6 5. d3 Bd6 6. h3 Nf6 7. Nbd2
[d]r1bqk2r/1pp2ppp/p1pb1n2/4p3/4P3/3P1N1P/PPPN1PP1/R1BQK2R b 0 1
In that line, you do not have to compute anything, as the pawn structure does not allow black any tactical solutions, and, after a while, complete symmetry might reign on the board.
When playing black, the French would be a very good drawing option: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 (de5 seems absolutely equal) f5 4. Dh5 g6 (or with some refinements on the part of both sides, but black should necessarily play f5)
[d]rnbqkbnr/ppp4p/4p1p1/3pPp1Q/3P4/8/PPP2PPP/RNB1KBNR w 0 1
and the double symmetrical pawn structures would ensure black against any possible dangerous activity of the white pieces. A double symmetrical pawn structure would mean that the pawn structure is symmetrical in terms of files (horizontally), and diagonally (each pawn being defended by at least one other own pawn, but most often two), so that attacking and exchanging pawns would lead to a reproduction of the double symmetry. Breakthroughs are close to impossible, if you are watchful.
The game could continue with c6, b5, a6, h5 for black, and the bastions should hold. Of course, it is more difficult to achieve a draw with black in the French than with white in the Ruy Lopez, but it is achievable. Btw, that should be another demonstration that chess is actually a draw (meaning that for every possible white move there will be a black move forcing the draw; but, of course, white's chances will always be a bit better in terms of the existence of larger number of inferior lines playable for black than lines playable for white, which is reflected in the statistical performance from human tournaments, showing a 53-47 advantage in favour of white).
Would be interested in your opinions: did you find many easy-drawing lines for black and white?
Best regards,
Lyudmil
A patzer's draw against anyone
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