I started with the Bishops opening. But I wasn’t ready for it. But I’ve considered going back to it. I need a 1.e4 opening. Have you played it much? Or explored it? (1.e4 e5 2.Bc4)

However, as black, I play the Hippo. Seems silly to most folks, I’m sure. But, I’ve beaten a few folks much higher rated that thought it was a joke…based on how they played. If white allows the hippo to fully develop and doesn’t understand the idea, they will be in trouble.

I understand your point and you’re probably a much higher rated player. I guess I think of stuff I’ve heard from Ramirez and such who use system openings and will defend their use to the death. I began with 1.e4 and didn’t know what to do and get slaughtered. 1.d4 gives me a game. However…

GM Aman Hambleton is pretty good with it.

London as white
Hippo as black

I use it as my opening as a beginner adult player. I needed a system. I didn’t study it much. But, I became convinced of the effectiveness after listening to @kamrynheidi.bsky.social It has begun to produce results. Even if you falter your way through it, you can find the middle game.