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.
Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Accelerated Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Qb3
This variation is characterized by White's early queen move to b3, immediately putting pressure on Black's central d5 pawn and the b7 pawn. By targeting these key points, White aims to challenge Black's typical Grünfeld setup before Black can fully complete development.
From White's perspective, this move is aggressive and attacking, as it directly contests Black's control of the center and tries to exploit potential weaknesses. For Black, the position demands careful defense and counterplay, often involving active piece play and timely pawn breaks to undermine White's center.
The opening specifically attacks the center by putting immediate pressure on Black's d5 pawn, which is crucial in the Grünfeld Defense's strategy of counterattacking White's central pawns. White's Qb3 encourages Black to either defend accurately or risk losing central influence early on.
You can also discover how top players used Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Accelerated Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.