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.
Opening Name: Semi-Slav Defense: Main Line
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. e3 e6 5. Nf3
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pp3ppp/2p1pn2/3p4/2PP4/2N1PN2/PP3PPP/R1BQKB1R b KQkq - 1 5
The Semi-Slav Defense is a solid and flexible response to 1.d4 that combines elements of the Slav and the Orthodox Queen's Gambit Declined. The move 5. Nf3 by White develops a piece to a natural square, supporting the center and preparing kingside castling.
Characteristic of this move: By playing Nf3, White maintains strong control over the central squares, especially e5, and keeps options open for further development. It is a classical developing move emphasizing piece activity and solid structure.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this line is generally balanced, aiming for a strong and flexible position rather than immediate attack. White seeks to build pressure on the center and queenside. Black's setup is solid and somewhat defensive, focusing on controlling the center with pawns and pieces, but also ready to counterattack depending on White’s plan.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center actively. White’s c4 and d4 pawns challenge Black’s d5 and c6 pawns, while piece development supports central tension. The Semi-Slav is known for dynamic central play, with both sides fighting for influence over key central squares.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Semi-Slav Defense: Main Line, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 14 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Semi-Slav Defense: Main Line to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.