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.
Queen's Gambit Declined: Harrwitz Attack, Main Line
The Queen's Gambit Declined (QGD) is a classical and solid defense against 1.d4. In this Harrwitz Attack main line, White develops actively with moves like Bf4 and e3, aiming to maintain a strong center and harmonious piece placement. Black responds with ...Be7, ...c5, and timely exchanges to challenge White's central control.
The characteristic of this line is White’s early development of the light-squared bishop to f4 before playing e3, which supports central squares and prepares for smooth development. Black’s ...c5 challenges the center directly, seeking counterplay and piece activity.
From White's perspective, this setup is moderately attacking, focusing on central control and piece activity rather than immediate aggression. Black’s approach is solid and somewhat defensive but actively contests the center with ...c5 and piece exchanges.
Both sides are engaged in a battle for the center: White occupies and supports the center with pawns and pieces, while Black counters by striking at White’s center with ...c5. Thus, the opening is focused on central tension and control rather than early flank attacks.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Declined: Harrwitz Attack, Main Line, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #32 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Declined: Harrwitz Attack, Main Line to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.