Stockfish 18 vs Torch Chess Game | Old Benoni Defense
Chess Analysis
This game features the Old Benoni Defense, an aggressive and unbalanced opening that immediately challenges White’s central structure. Stockfish 18 responds with calm precision, accepting the asymmetry while focusing on rapid development and central control.
In the early middlegame, Stockfish handles the queenside tension with confidence. Pawn captures are timed carefully, and piece activity is prioritized over material considerations. Torch seeks dynamic counterplay through central breaks and active piece placement, but Stockfish remains well-coordinated.
As the position opens, Stockfish begins to assert strategic dominance. Pieces are gradually centralized, rooks find active files, and pressure is applied against structural weaknesses created by the early pawn advances. Torch is forced into defensive decisions, often reacting rather than dictating play.
The transition into the endgame is managed with precision. Stockfish simplifies only when it improves king activity and pawn structure, ensuring that every exchange favors the stronger side. The king becomes an active participant, supporting passed pawns and restricting counterplay.
In the later stages, Stockfish demonstrates excellent endgame technique. Passed pawns on the queenside are advanced methodically, while Torch’s pieces struggle to find coordination. Each move tightens control and reduces defensive resources.
The game concludes with a clean and confident conversion. Stockfish transforms its positional advantage into decisive material gains and finishes without allowing counter-chances, illustrating how the Old Benoni can be met with disciplined strategy and deep calculation.