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.
Opening Name: French Defense: Exchange Variation
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. exd5 exd5
FEN: rnbqkbnr/ppp2ppp/8/3p4/3P4/8/PPP2PPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq - 0 4
The Exchange Variation of the French Defense is characterized by an early pawn exchange in the center, leading to a symmetrical pawn structure with pawns on d4 and d5. This simplification often results in a more balanced and less tension-filled position compared to other French lines.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is the early exchange of the central pawns, which removes the typical French Defense tension and opens lines for piece development. Unlike other French Defense variations, it does not create an isolated or backward pawn, making it somewhat less dynamic.
Attacking or Defensive: Both sides tend to adopt a more positional and strategic approach. White aims for steady development and control, while Black often seeks equality and solid defense. It is generally considered less aggressive than other French Defense variations. White’s play is more about maintaining central presence, whereas Black focuses on solidifying their position.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center by exchanging central pawns early. Both sides maintain pawns on the central d-file (d4 for White, d5 for Black), leading to symmetrical central control without immediate central tension.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the French: Exchange, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 117 - Move #6 white
You can also discover how top players used French: Exchange to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.