ECO code: A22
English Opening: King's English Variation, Two Knights Variation, Reversed Dragon
This line arises after the moves 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 d5. It is a dynamic and flexible system where Black challenges the center early with ...d5, mirroring ideas from the Sicilian Dragon but with colors reversed, hence the name "Reversed Dragon."
Characteristic of the move 3...d5: Black immediately contests White's central control by striking at the center with ...d5. This move aims to open lines for Black's pieces and prevent White from comfortably occupying the center with d4.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, ...d5 is an assertive and attacking move, seeking active counterplay in the center. White usually adopts a flexible stance, preparing to fianchetto the bishop and control key central squares, balancing between solid development and counter-attacking chances.
Control of the Center: This opening directly challenges the center early on. Black's ...d5 fights for central space, while White aims to maintain pressure on the center primarily through piece play and the c4 pawn. Therefore, the opening is very much about contesting the center rather than ignoring it.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the English Opening: King's English Variation, Two Knights Variation, Reversed Dragon, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 14 - Move #8 white