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.
English Opening: King's English Variation, Four Knights Variation, Fianchetto Line
Moves: 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Nf3 Nc6 4. g3
This line is characterized by White's fianchetto of the kingside bishop with 4. g3, aiming to control the long diagonal and support central and queenside influence. The setup is flexible, allowing White to maintain pressure on the center indirectly rather than occupying it immediately.
From White's perspective, this is a balanced approach, combining both defensive solidity and potential for dynamic play. The fianchettoed bishop strengthens White's control over the dark squares and helps in preparing for central or flank expansion. For Black, the position remains open to counterattack or solid development.
Regarding center control, this opening does not attack the center directly with pawns early on; instead, White applies pressure on the central squares from a distance, particularly via the c4 pawn and the fianchettoed bishop on g2. This indirect approach challenges Black's central presence while maintaining flexibility.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the English Opening: King's English Variation, Four Knights Variation, Fianchetto Line, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used English Opening: King's English Variation, Four Knights Variation, Fianchetto Line to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.