ECO code: E65
King's Indian Defense: Fianchetto Variation, Yugoslav Variation, Exchange Line
This opening arises after the moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nf3 Bg7 4. g3 O-O 5. Bg2 d6 6. O-O c5 7. Nc3 Nc6 8. dxc5 dxc5.
Characteristic: The Exchange Line here features an early capture in the center (dxc5), which simplifies the position and clarifies the pawn structure. Black recaptures on c5, maintaining active piece play and pressure on the center and queenside. This line often leads to a balanced but dynamic middlegame where both sides have chances.
Strategy - Attacking or Defensive: For White, the setup with a fianchettoed bishop on g2 and a solid pawn center is primarily positional and defensive, focusing on controlling key squares and preparing for central or queenside play. Black, meanwhile, aims for counterattack chances, especially targeting White’s center and queenside through timely pawn breaks and piece pressure.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center: White starts with a strong pawn on d4, but the early exchange on c5 means the center is somewhat open. Black challenges the center with ...c5 and pressure from pieces, so the opening features a dynamic struggle for central control rather than a static hold.
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 King's Indian Defense: Fianchetto Variation, Yugoslav Variation, Exchange Line, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #45 black