ECO code: D02
Opening Name: Queen's Pawn Game: Chigorin Variation
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nc6
Description: The Chigorin Variation arises after Black develops the knight to c6 early, challenging White's control of the center and preparing active piece play. This move is characteristic for Black’s willingness to contest the center directly with a knight instead of the more common pawn moves like ...Nf6 or ...e6.
Characteristic: Black’s 2...Nc6 is somewhat unorthodox, focusing on piece development rather than immediate pawn tension. It aims to put pressure on White’s d4 pawn and can lead to dynamic, open positions.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, this is an attacking and somewhat provocative move, seeking active play rather than solid defense. For White, the approach can be either attacking or positional depending on how White responds, but White typically maintains central control.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. Black’s knight on c6 challenges White’s pawn on d4, and White’s initial moves support maintaining or expanding central influence.
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 Queen's Pawn Game: Chigorin Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 113 - Move #4 black