Oogeima-gakari

Oogeima-gakari refers to a strategic approach move in which a stone is placed two lines over and one line up from a corner stone — a larger version of the standard knight’s move. It is typically used as an opening move to apply light and flexible pressure on a corner, particularly the 3-4 point.

This move allows the player to stake influence toward the side while maintaining flexibility. Compared to the smaller keima approach, the large knight’s move offers more outward influence but is more vulnerable to counterattacks.

Oogeima-gakari is especially effective when the player’s surrounding positions provide backup support, making it difficult for the opponent to punish the looser shape. It often leads to varied joseki or fighting, depending on how the opponent responds — with an attachment, a pincer, or ignoring the move entirely.