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: Orthodox Variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 O-O 6. Be2 e5.
This opening is characterized by Black's fianchettoed bishop on g7 and a strong pawn structure aimed at controlling the center from a distance. The move 6...e5 challenges White's central presence directly, signaling Black's intention to contest the center vigorously.
From White's perspective, the setup is typically attacking, aiming to maintain and expand central control with pawns on d4 and e4. Black's setup is also attacking, but more dynamic and flexible, often leading to counterplay on the kingside or in the center after timely pawn breaks.
Both sides focus heavily on central control: White occupies the center with pawns, while Black contests it with pieces and pawn breaks. The Orthodox Variation leads to rich, complex middlegames where control of the center and timely attacks are critical.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the King's Indian Defense: Orthodox Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 9 - Move #9 black
You can also discover how top players used King's Indian Defense: Orthodox Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.