ECO code: B70
Sicilian Defense: Dragon Variation begins with the moves 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 g6. This setup is characterized by Black fianchettoing the dark-squared bishop to g7, aiming to exert strong pressure along the long diagonal towards the center and queenside.
Characteristic: The key feature of the Dragon Variation is Black’s kingside fianchetto with ...g6, which supports control over the central dark squares and prepares for active counterplay.
Attacking or Defensive: Black’s setup is aggressively dynamic, seeking counterattack chances rather than purely defensive play. White usually aims for a direct attacking strategy, often launching a kingside offensive, while Black counterattacks on the queenside and center.
Center Control: White takes the initiative in the center early on with pawns on e4 and d4, while Black contests the center indirectly through piece pressure and control over key squares, especially via the fianchettoed bishop.
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 Sicilian Defense: Dragon Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 38 - Move #8 white