ECO code: E73
King's Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Standard Development
This opening arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Be2. It is a classical setup within the King's Indian Defense, where Black allows White to occupy the center with pawns on d4 and e4, while preparing a counterattack.
Characteristic of 5. Be2: This move is a natural developing move that prepares for kingside castling. It also supports the center and keeps options flexible. By developing the bishop to e2, White avoids early confrontations and solidifies control over key central squares.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this setup is primarily attacking, aiming to maintain a strong pawn center and prepare for potential space gains or kingside initiatives. For Black, the King's Indian Defense is typically counter-attacking, focusing on undermining White's center later in the game, often with moves like ...e5 or ...c5.
Center Control: White directly attacks and controls the center with pawns on d4 and e4, establishing a strong foothold. Black adopts a more flexible and hypermodern approach, allowing White's center initially but planning to challenge it dynamically.
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: Normal Variation, Standard Development, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #7 black