Mikhail Botvinnik was a Soviet and Russian chess Grandmaster and World Chess Champion. Born on August 17, 1911, in what is now Saint Petersburg, Russia, Botvinnik emerged as one of the strongest chess players in the mid-20th century. He became World Chess Champion in 1948 after winning the championship tournament organized by FIDE (the International Chess Federation). Botvinnik successfully defended his title in several matches against prominent challengers, including Vasily Smyslov, Mikhail Tal, and Tigran Petrosian. He was known for his deep understanding of chess strategy and his innovative approach to the game. Botvinnik also made significant contributions to chess theory and was a highly influential chess teacher and writer. He remained a leading figure in the world of chess until his retirement from competitive play in the 1970s. Botvinnik passed away on May 5, 1995, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest chess players of all time.

Mikhail Botvinnik, being a highly analytical and strategic player, did not have a single favorite opening or play. Instead, he was known for his deep understanding of various openings and his ability to adapt his play to different positions.

However, Botvinnik was particularly associated with the Botvinnik System in the Slav Defense, which arises after the moves 1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3 e6 5.Bg5 dxc4. He also made significant contributions to the development of the Semi-Slav Defense and the Queen’s Gambit Declined, among other openings.

Overall, Botvinnik’s favorite play could be described as systematic and strategic, with a focus on solid positional understanding and long-term planning. He was known for his meticulous preparation and his ability to outmaneuver opponents in complex middlegame positions.