The chess engine landscape has undergone a revolution with the introduction of neural network-based engines like Leela Chess Zero (Lc0). Understanding the differences between neural network and traditional alpha-beta engines fundamentally changes how you prepare against them.
Stockfish (Alpha-Beta)
Leela (Neural Net)
Strategic Recommendations
Create closed, maneuvering positions where calculation depth matters less. French Defense, Caro-Kann, and certain Queen's Gambit Declined lines work well.
Aim for concrete tactical complications where precise calculation matters. King's Gambit, Latvian Gambit, or aggressive Sicilian variations are ideal.
Practically, this means choosing the King's Gambit, Latvian Gambit, or aggressive Sicilian variations against Leela, while opting for the Berlin Defense or Petroff against Stockfish. The opening choice alone doesn't guarantee success, but it optimizes your chances based on the engine's architectural strengths and weaknesses.
Modern chess platforms increasingly use hybrid approaches or allow you to select which engine you face. Use this to your advantage by practicing different opening repertoires against different engine types.