ECO code: E70
King's Indian Defence: 4.e4 O-O
The King's Indian Defence arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 O-O. This setup is one of Black's most dynamic responses to White's classical center formation. By castling quickly with 4...O-O, Black prepares to challenge White's strong central presence in the coming middlegame.
Characteristic of the move 4...O-O: This move is a key developing and safety measure for Black. It allows Black to complete kingside development and prepares for flexible pawn breaks such as ...d6 and ...e5 or ...c5 later on. Black keeps options open while maintaining a solid yet dynamic posture.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, playing 4.e4 signals an intention to claim a strong central space and build a classical pawn center, which is generally considered an attacking stance. Black’s 4...O-O is more of a preparatory and somewhat defensive move, focusing on piece development and king safety, but it also sets the stage for counterattacks against White’s center later in the game.
Center Control: White clearly aims to dominate the center with pawns on d4 and e4. Black, on the other hand, initially concedes central space but plans to counterattack and undermine White’s center with timely breaks like ...d6 and ...e5. Thus, this opening is centered around a strategic battle for control of the center.
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: 4.e4 O-O, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #8 black