ECO code: A00
Polish Opening: King's Indian Variation 3.c4 Bg7
This variation arises after the moves 1. b4 Nf6 2. Bb2 g6 3. c4 Bg7. White begins with the Polish Opening (also known as the Orangutan), aiming to control the queenside early with the b4 pawn thrust and fianchettoed bishop on b2. The addition of 3.c4 bolsters White's control over the central squares, especially d5 and e4, while Black responds with a King's Indian setup, fianchettoing the bishop to g7 to influence the long diagonal and prepare for central and kingside counterplay.
Characteristic: The move 3.c4 is characteristic of White's attempt to challenge the center indirectly and gain spatial control, combining Polish Opening flank play with a more classical central pawn structure. Black's Bg7 is a thematic King's Indian fianchetto, aiming for flexible development and pressure on the center.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this setup is somewhat flexible but tends toward an attacking stance on the queenside and center, leveraging the b4 and c4 pawns to restrict Black's options. Black adopts a solid but dynamic stance, preparing to counterattack White's center and wings, especially through kingside activity characteristic of the King's Indian Defense.
Center Control: White challenges the center by establishing pawns on b4 and c4, putting pressure on d5 and aiming to limit Black's central pawn breaks. Black’s Bg7 supports control over the central dark squares and prepares for counterplay, but the opening is less about immediate central occupation and more about strategic tension and flexibility.
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.