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
This variation of the Grünfeld Defense features White developing the knight to f3 on move 4, reinforcing control over the center and preparing for flexible development. The Three Knights setup by White aims to maintain a solid and harmonious position while keeping options open for central and kingside play.
Characteristic of the move 4. Nf3: This move supports White's control over the central squares, especially e5 and d4, and helps White avoid early exchanges or complications. It also prepares for safe kingside castling and keeps pressure on Black’s central d5 pawn.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, the Three Knights Variation is typically positional and flexible, leaning slightly towards a solid, development-focused approach rather than an immediate attack. For Black, the Grünfeld Defense as a whole is an active and dynamic counterattacking opening, aiming to challenge White’s center quickly and create counterplay.
Center Control: Yes, the Grünfeld Defense directly challenges White’s central control. White initially occupies the center with pawns and knights, while Black contests it aggressively with moves like ...d5 and pressure along the long diagonal and center. The 4. Nf3 move helps White maintain strong central presence and prepares to respond to Black's counterattacks.
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 13 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.