ECO code: A00
Polish Opening: King's Indian Variation 3.c4
This variation arises after the moves 1. b4 Nf6 2. Bb2 g6 3. c4. White begins with the Polish Opening, an uncommon flank opening aiming to control the queenside early. With 3.c4, White strengthens their grip on the center and prepares to challenge Black's setup.
Characteristic: The move 3.c4 aims to support central control and gain space on the queenside, linking the flank pawn thrust with more traditional central influence. It often leads to a dynamic battle where White tries to use the b4 and c4 pawns to put pressure on Black's position.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this opening is generally attacking, focusing on expanding on the queenside and contesting the center indirectly. Black’s moves like ...Nf6 and ...g6 indicate a flexible setup, often leading to a solid but dynamic King's Indian style defense.
Center Control: Yes, White challenges the center with 3.c4, aiming to influence central squares from the flank and prepare for further central or queenside expansion. It does not contest the center immediately with pawns like e4 but exerts pressure in a more subtle way.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.