Caro-Kann Defense Classical Variation


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This lesson will give you initial knowledge about the Classical variation of the Caro-Kann Defense. The Classical variation is the 4th most popular variation of the Caro-Kann. To learn how to correctly play it, please find below the official data, textual description and a chess video on the Classical variation of the Caro-Kann.

Caro-Kann Defense, Classical Variation: Official Data


Variation Name: Classical variation of the Caro-Kann Defense
Variation Moves: 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5
ECO Code: B18

Classical variation of Caro Kann Defense

The variation is the classics of the Caro-Kann Defense chess opening. The Classical variation is considered "the most correct" Caro-Kann Defense. The White knight on e4 is under attack after 4... Bf5 and the Classical variation has 2 playing lines: with 5.Ng3 (main) and with 5.Nc5 (rare).

The line 5.Ng3 mostly runs 5... Bg6 6.h4 h6 - then this variation line goes as usual development for the both parties. White usually makes long or short castle while Black long. The typical moves are h4, Nf3, Bd3 for the White player and h6, Nd7, Qc7 for the Black player.

The line 5.Nc5 is rare because Black can easily get at least equal position, sometimes with an initiative. Within this variation line, Black may answer 5... Qc7, 5... Nd7 or attacking the White knight with b6 or e5. You can see this in Part III of the video which follows.

Caro-Kann Defense, Classical Variation: Video


See the video below to get an idea of what is the Classical variation of the Caro-Kann. The video consists of 3 parts and runs for 3 minutes 54 seconds. Part I is introduction. Part II will show how to play a most common line with 5.Ng3. Part III will show how to play a proven line with 5.Nc5 and more.




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Links to All Chess Opening Lessons

On this page of chess-openings-for-beginners.blogspot.com you have studied the Classical variation of the Caro-Kann Defense chess opening. The variation starts with 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5; it is ECO code B18 in the Encyclopedia of Chess Openings. The variation is considered the "most correct" Caro-Kann.