Keima Kakari
Knight's move approach
The keima kakari (knight’s move approach) is a cornerstone of corner play, typically used to pressure an opponent’s single stone on the 3-4 or 4-4 point. By placing a stone at a knight’s move distance, the player balances aggression with flexibility, allowing for diverse follow-ups based on the opponent’s response.
This approach is particularly effective in the opening, as it can lead to various joseki sequences or influence-oriented positions depending on how the opponent responds.
Most Common Responses
The choice of response depends on the overall board position and the player’s strategy. The knight’s move approach itself is considered a flexible and balanced move, offering both territorial and influence-based follow-ups.
For players seeking deeper study of these variations and responses, the Joseki ABCs course provides comprehensive analysis of this and many other patterns and their applications.
The effectiveness of keima kakari depends on its timing and the opponent’s response. It is a versatile move seen frequently in professional and amateur games alike. Players may also opt for a large knight’s move approach (ogeima kakari), which prioritizes influence over immediate corner pressure.