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.
King's Indian Defense: Normal Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4
This variation of the King's Indian Defense is characterized by White's strong central presence with the move 4.e4, aiming to establish a broad pawn center. Black fianchettoes the dark-squared bishop with ...g6 and ...Bg7, preparing to challenge White's center later in the game.
Characteristics: The move 4.e4 is a direct claim of central space by White. Black allows White to build a large pawn center initially but plans to counterattack it with moves like ...d6 and ...e5 or ...c5. This dynamic creates a rich positional and tactical battle.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this setup is primarily attacking, focusing on controlling and expanding in the center to restrict Black's play. As Black, the defense is counterattacking, aiming to undermine and challenge White's center at the right moment rather than immediately contesting it.
Center Control: Yes, this opening heavily involves the center. White aggressively occupies the center with pawns on d4, c4, and e4, while Black aims to challenge and eventually break down White's central dominance.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the King's Indian Defense: Normal Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 59 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used King's Indian Defense: Normal Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.