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.
Slav Indian Opening
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c6
The Slav Indian is a solid and flexible defense played by Black. By playing 2...c6, Black supports the d5 square and prepares to challenge White's central control without committing the light-squared bishop too early.
Characteristic: The move 2...c6 is characteristic of the Slav family, aiming for a strong pawn structure and a resilient defense against White's central ambitions. It combines elements of the Slav Defense with the Indian setup, allowing Black to choose between solid or dynamic plans later.
Playing Style: From Black's perspective, this opening is generally defensive but with counter-attacking potential. White typically maintains the initiative and central space, so White's approach is more attacking, aiming to build and control the center.
Center Control: White focuses on establishing a strong pawn center with pawns on d4 and c4, while Black contests the center indirectly. Black's move 2...c6 supports a later ...d5, challenging White's central dominance and fighting for central squares.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Slav Indian, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 15 - Move #7 white
You can also discover how top players used Slav Indian to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.