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: Sämisch Variation
The Sämisch Variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. f3. This setup by White aims to build a strong pawn center and solidify control over the key central squares, especially e4 and d5.
Characteristic of the move 5. f3: This move supports White's center, particularly the e4 pawn, and prepares for a broad pawn center while also restricting Black's typical kingside activity. It is a somewhat cautious yet ambitious move that signals White's intention to claim space and prepare for a potential kingside expansion.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, the Sämisch Variation is primarily attacking, focusing on building a powerful center and preparing for kingside attacks. For Black, the King's Indian Defense is generally counterattacking, aiming to challenge and undermine White's center later in the game.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White establishes a strong pawn presence in the center with pawns on d4, e4, and f3, while Black aims to challenge this center with timely pawn breaks like ...e5 or ...c5.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the King's Indian Defense: Sämisch Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 13 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used King's Indian Defense: Sämisch Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.