ECO code: D55
Queen's Gambit Declined: Neo-Orthodox Variation
The Neo-Orthodox Variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 Be7 5. Bg5 O-O 6. e3 h6. Black challenges White's bishop on g5 early with 6...h6, asking White to decide whether to exchange on f6 or retreat. This move is characteristic of Black's desire to maintain a solid pawn structure and prevent White’s light-squared bishop from pinning the knight on f6 too comfortably.
Characteristic of the move 6...h6: It is a typical waiting and questioning move that aims to provoke a commitment from White regarding the bishop, while also giving Black some luft for the king and potential to control the g5-square.
From White’s perspective, the position remains flexible and can lead to both attacking and positional plans. White often continues to build pressure on the center and can consider exchanges on f6, which may slightly weaken Black’s pawn structure. From Black’s side, the setup is primarily defensive and solid, focusing on maintaining a strong center and avoiding early weaknesses.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center actively. White’s c4 and d4 pawns challenge Black’s d5 pawn, while Black’s setup with pawns on d5 and e6 aims to hold a firm central presence. The Neo-Orthodox Variation does not abandon the fight for the center but emphasizes solid development and cautious play.
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 Gambit Declined: Neo-Orthodox Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #20 white