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, Petrosian System
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Bg5
The Petrosian System in the Grünfeld Defense arises after White develops the bishop to g5 on move 5, aiming to exert pressure on Black's knight on f6 and potentially disrupt Black's kingside development. This move is characteristic for its subtlety and strategic depth, named after the legendary World Champion Tigran Petrosian, known for his prophylactic and positional style.
From White's perspective, 5.Bg5 is primarily a positional and somewhat attacking move, seeking to control key squares and limit Black's options rather than initiating immediate tactical threats. It indirectly challenges Black's control of the center by targeting the knight that supports Black’s central pawn on d5.
For Black, the opening remains dynamic and counterattacking, as the Grünfeld Defense is fundamentally about challenging White's central presence. Black aims to undermine White's center with timely pawn breaks and piece activity.
Overall, this variation keeps the focus on the center control: White maintains a strong pawn center, while Black contests it actively. The bishop move to g5 adds pressure and prepares for flexible development, making it a rich battleground for strategic play.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation, Petrosian System, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #9 black
You can also discover how top players used Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation, Petrosian System to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.