ECO code: E81
King's Indian Defense: Steiner Attack
The Steiner Attack arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. f3 O-O 6. Bg5. In this line, White focuses on a strong central presence with pawns on d4, e4, and f3, supporting control of the center and preparing for a potential e4-e5 push. The move 6. Bg5 is characteristic for putting immediate pressure on Black's knight on f6, aiming to challenge Black’s kingside setup and provoke weaknesses or exchanges that favor White’s attacking chances.
This variation is primarily attacking for White, as it seeks to dominate the center and initiate kingside activity. Black’s position is more defensive in nature, aiming to counterattack later, typically on the queenside or with central breaks like ...e5. White’s setup emphasizes control of the center, combining pawn structure and piece placement to restrict Black’s typical King's Indian counterplay.
In summary, the Steiner Attack targets the center aggressively with pawns and pieces, making it a dynamic choice for White against the King's Indian Defense.
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: Steiner Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #9 black