How to Beat KataGo at 4 stones - Another example where W starts out with San San

 


This example is similar to a previous one in that KataGo starts out by invading the Lower Left (LL) corner, but a different approach is used by B, where moves 2 and 4 are played and then 6, rather than 6 immediately.


Here KataGo has invaded in the UL adn LR corners, and played 31.

The strategy B is implementing involves 4 items:

1. Kill 2 of W's corners.

2. Make a territory somewhere else besides the 2 killed corners.

3. Don't allow W a huge territory.

4. Keep the B groups safe.

The most challenging item is the second one, as KataGo is very good at sniffing out prospective territories and limiting them, especially if there is a weak group to attack, or some problem with the shape. Before 31 was played, there were potential areas to develop in the upper side, right side, and bottom side, although with 13 sticking out, the top side doesn't look very promising.  Once 31 is played, the bottom side looks to be most promising, especially after played 47 (in the next diagram).


Once 52 is played, assuming W can kill the two diagonal corners, B will have a significant amount of territory, which will be difficult for W to match.  B will be trying to kill the two corners, keep the bottom territory intact, and keep the groups safe.  W developing a huge territory does not appear to be an issue.



98 was a very nice move to play, as it simultaneously reinforced the group in the UR, and the territory on the bottom.  B has succeeded in killing the two diagonal corners, building an additional territory, and keeping the groups safe.


These are the remaining moves, at which point KataGo resigned, with B ahead by an estimated 41 points.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Versailles Unveiled: The Power Dynamics of Louis XVI's Salons

The Secret of Happiness