Best First Moves in Go
On an empty board, almost any move is legal — but a few are far better than the rest. The best first moves in Go nearly all go in the corners, because corners are the cheapest place to make territory. Learn three corner points and the reason behind them, and your openings will already be sound.
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Start in the corners
The single most reliable opening idea is to play your first stones in empty corners. A corner uses two edges of the board to help enclose territory, so it takes far fewer stones to secure than a side or the center. When the board is empty, the biggest, cheapest opportunities are the four corners — take them first.
Three corner points to know
- The 4-4 point (hoshi, the star point): balanced, influence-oriented, great for beginners.
- The 3-4 point (komoku): a slightly more territorial start toward one side.
- The 3-3 point (san-san): takes the corner territory directly and solidly.
After the corners
Once the corners are taken, extend along the sides to connect and expand them, then contest the center last. You don't need to memorize sequences — just follow the order corners, sides, center, playing the biggest open area each time. That single habit produces reasonable openings against anyone.
Frequently asked questions
- Where should I play my first move in Go?
- In a corner. Corners need the fewest stones to make territory because two edges help enclose them, so they're the biggest opportunities on an empty board. The 4-4 star point is a great beginner choice.
- What is the best opening point in Go?
- There's no single best point, but the 4-4 (star point), 3-4, and 3-3 corner points are all excellent. The 4-4 favors influence, the 3-3 favors solid territory, and the 3-4 is in between.
- Should beginners memorize openings?
- No. Just follow the order corners, then sides, then center, and play the biggest open area each turn. That simple habit gives you sound openings without memorizing any sequences.
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