Introduction:

There are many starting-configurations in Abalone.



This is a cluster-compendium about some well-established starting-configurations - this cluster-compendium is only a proposition, used with an exploration-aim.  

In the first cluster we regard standard-related configurations: there is probably a main-group-(block) in opposition to an adversarial main-group-(block) - even in "Snake". Thus there is one main-group on each side.

The second cluster is similar, but the two Snakes are not in opposition. Its easy possible - but not determined - to build two sub-groups with different functions in the opening.  

The third cluster cleaves the balls of each colour in two symmetrical and equal sub-groups from the beginning. There are not isolated balls, but not all balls of each colour are combined.

The fourth cluster cleaves the balls of each colour in different sub-groups and often with isolated or caged balls.

The fifth cluster can be regarded as a synthesis of the third and the fourth cluster.


The character of the opening for each cluster is obviously varying. Certainly it would be possible to figure out the opening-principles for each cluster, but probably this would be a too generalised point of view.
We consider that it is the most fruitful way to study each starting-configuration separately.

For example there are characteristic differences "in the opening" for Belgium-Daisy and German-Daisy. Its just the point that the first moves are very decisive. And there are certainly different options in Belgium and German-Daisy to conquer centre-space.


After the opening, in the middle-game, there can emergence similar patterns and structures - even for all clusters, if the players are able to create functional sub-groups in standard-related configurations. That’s why we present the middle-game-theory independent of the opening-theory.
 
Therefore there are sujets for each starting-configuration. And we give you the advice to study as many configurations as possible to develop your Abalone-performance universal.  

--Last edited by Funky-AbaloneTheory-JazzClub on 2005-11-08 00:39:39 --