ECO code: B00
Owen Defence: 2.d4 Bb7
The Owen Defence begins with the moves 1.e4 b6 2.d4 Bb7. Black fianchettoes the queenside bishop early, aiming to exert pressure along the long diagonal towards the center and White's e4 pawn.
Characteristic: The key feature of this opening is Black's early fianchetto of the dark-squared bishop to b7, which targets the central squares from a distance rather than occupying them directly.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, the Owen Defence is somewhat flexible but tends to be more defensive and positional, as Black does not immediately challenge the center with pawns but instead applies pressure indirectly. White, on the other hand, can take a more attacking stance by occupying the center firmly with pawns on e4 and d4.
Center Control: This opening does not involve an immediate pawn challenge to the center by Black, but the bishop on b7 indirectly attacks and influences the center squares. White usually seizes a strong central presence early on, while Black relies on piece pressure and counterplay.
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 Owen Defence: 2.d4 Bb7, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 98 - Move #5 black