ECO code: A12
English: Caro-Kann Defence 3.b3
Moves: 1. c4 c6 2. Nf3 d5 3. b3
This line arises when White fianchettoes the queen’s bishop early with 3.b3, aiming to exert long-term pressure on the central and queenside dark squares, particularly targeting Black’s d5 pawn from a distance. The move 3.b3 characterizes a flexible and subtle approach rather than direct confrontation.
From White’s perspective, this is a more positional and somewhat defensive setup, focusing on solid development and control of key squares rather than immediate central or tactical attacks. Black’s setup with ...c6 and ...d5 claims classical central space, so White’s strategy is to challenge the center indirectly.
While White does not immediately occupy the center, the fianchettoed bishop supports pressure on the center and queenside, making this an indirect contest of the center. Black, meanwhile, maintains a strong central presence with pawns on c6 and d5.
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.