King's Indian Defense: Averbakh Variation, Main Line

A solid and aggressive opening for Black, the King's Indian Defense: Averbakh Variation, Main Line aims to counter White's central pawn structure.

The opening is named after Soviet Grandmaster Yuri Averbakh, who contributed significantly to the development of this variation. It is characterized by Black's early fianchetto of the dark-squared bishop and the subsequent pawn break with c5, challenging White's central pawn structure. The Averbakh Variation, Main Line, is a popular choice among players who prefer a solid yet aggressive approach with the black pieces.

In this variation, White typically develops their pieces harmoniously, with the light-squared bishop on e2 and the dark-squared bishop on g5, pinning the black knight on f6. Black's main idea is to play e6, breaking in the center and aiming to create counterplay on the queenside. The resulting pawn structure often leads to a complex middlegame, with both sides having chances for active play.

The Averbakh Variation, Main Line, has been played by many top-level players, including former World Champions Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov. It is considered a reliable and flexible option for Black, allowing for various pawn structures and plans depending on the specific position.