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.
French Defense: Advance Variation
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 c5 4. c3 Nc6
Characteristic of this move: The Advance Variation is defined by White's third move, 3.e5, which gains space by pushing the pawn forward and immediately challenges Black's central control. Black responds with ...c5, striking at White's d4 pawn and challenging White's center from the flank. The move 4.c3 supports the d4 pawn, solidifying White's central chain. Black's 4...Nc6 develops a knight to pressure the d4 pawn and prepares for further central and queenside play.
Attacking or defensive? As White, this variation is generally attacking in nature, aiming to cramp Black's position and gain space for a kingside attack. Black takes a more counterattacking stance by challenging White's center and seeking counterplay on the queenside.
Center control: This opening directly contests the center. White grabs space with 3.e5, while Black attacks the center with ...c5 and piece pressure. The battle for central pawns and squares is a key theme in this variation.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the French Defense: Advance Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 75 - Move #6 black
You can also discover how top players used French Defense: Advance Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.