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: Three Knights Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Bg7
This variation of the Grünfeld Defense is characterized by White developing the knight to f3 early, supporting the center and preparing for kingside castling. Black challenges White's central control immediately with ...d5, aiming to contest the center dynamically.
From Black's perspective, this opening is aggressive and counterattacking, as Black allows White to build a strong center initially but plans to undermine it quickly with pressure on the d4 pawn. White's setup is more positional and solid, focusing on maintaining central presence and harmonious piece development.
The opening directly attacks the center. Black strikes at White's central pawns early with ...d5, and White aims to support and preserve the center with knights on c3 and f3.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 20 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.