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: Three Knights, Vienna Variation
This opening arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 dxc4. It is a variation within the Queen's Gambit Declined where Black accepts the c4 pawn temporarily, aiming to hold onto the extra pawn or challenge White's center later.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is Black's early capture of the c4 pawn, diverging from the more classical Queen's Gambit Declined lines where Black maintains the central tension. White’s development with three knights (Nf3 and Nc3) supports strong central control and quick development.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the setup is primarily attacking in nature, focusing on regaining the pawn and exerting pressure on Black's center and queenside. Black adopts a somewhat defensive posture by accepting the pawn but must be cautious to complete development and counterattack effectively.
Center Control: White maintains a strong grip on the center, especially with the pawns on d4 and pieces supporting central squares. Black’s early capture at c4 means Black temporarily relinquishes central presence but aims to challenge it later. Overall, White actively contests and attacks the center in this line.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights, Vienna Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 13 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights, Vienna Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.