Only 13 distinct openings
There are 176 possible first moves: 88 first-floor squares, each with a common or a special block. But the four faces of the pyramid are identical and each face is symmetrical, so many of them are the same idea seen from another side. In the end there are 13 truly different opening squares.
Named openings
| Opening | Squares | Idea |
|---|---|---|
| Yosdel | A1, M1, M13, A13 | Natural step on B2 with a single, fast but easily blocked route up. |
| Capablanca | A2, B1, L1, M2, M12, L13, B13, A12 | Natural step on C3 with two routes up. Perhaps the most balanced. |
| Párragueña | A3, C1, K1, M3, M11, K13, C13, A11 | Two natural steps (C3 and D3) with five routes up. |
| Tanu (Ukrainian) | A4, D1, J1, M4, M10, J13, D13, A10 | Two natural steps and one artificial, eight routes up; strong in the endgame. |
| Muiño | A5, E1, I1, M5, M9, I13, E13, A9 | Three natural steps, nine routes up; aggressive control of the 2nd floor. |
| Susy | A6, F1, H1, M6, M8, H13, F13, A8 | One of the most dynamic openings, coordinating along neighbouring files and ranks. |
| Liz | A7, G1, M7, G13 | Central opening heading straight for the summit; technical and precise. |
The openings are named after people and places dear to the game's creators: Liz is co-creator Liz Power Suárez, Susy and Muiño honour Yosdel's mother and father, and Capablanca the Cuban chess champion.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best opening in XIMA?
There isn't one best opening; it depends on your plan. Capablanca is perhaps the most balanced and Liz the most direct.