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.
Slav Defense: Exchange Variation
The Slav Defense arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6, and the Exchange Variation is reached with 3. cxd5 cxd5. This variation features symmetrical pawn structures in the center.
Characteristic: The defining trait of the Exchange Variation is the early pawn exchange on d5, leading to a symmetrical and balanced pawn structure. This often results in a solid but flexible position where both sides have equal central control.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this opening is generally more positional and less immediately attacking, focusing on maintaining central presence and piece development. Black aims to equalize comfortably and can adopt either defensive or counterattacking plans depending on White’s setup.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. The early exchange on d5 clarifies central tension, and both sides maintain pawns on d4 and d5 respectively (after the exchange, pawns stand on d4 for White and d5 for Black), ensuring central presence is a key theme.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Slav: Exchange, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 48 - Move #5 black
You can also discover how top players used Slav: Exchange to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.