8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Start
Starting position
Start
1. e4
c5
2. Nf3
d6
3. d4
About This Opening
The most popular response to 1.e4 at the highest levels. Leads to sharp, unbalanced positions.
Why Play It?
Black fights for the center asymmetrically. Creates winning chances with counter-attack.
Key Ideas
- Avoid symmetrical pawn structure
- Control d5 square
- Counter-attack on the queenside
- Use the half-open c-file