Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation

The Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation is a solid, yet passive chess opening that aims to maintain a strong pawn structure and gradually improve the position.

1. e4 2. e5 3. Nf3 4. d6 5. d4 6. Nd7

The opening is named after the 18th-century French chess player François-André Danican Philidor, who was a strong advocate of the importance of pawn play in chess. The Hanham Variation is a specific line within the Philidor Defense that focuses on maintaining a solid pawn structure and gradually improving the position of the pieces. It is considered a passive opening, as it does not immediately challenge the center or create immediate threats.

In this variation, Black aims to maintain a strong pawn chain from d6 to e5, while developing the knight to d7 to support the e5 pawn. This setup allows Black to potentially expand in the center later in the game, while also providing a solid foundation for the other pieces to develop. The downside of this opening is that it can lead to passive positions for Black, as White can often gain space and initiative in the center.

The Hanham Variation is not as popular as other lines in the Philidor Defense, but it has been played by several strong players, including former World Champion Anatoly Karpov. It can be a good choice for players who prefer a solid, strategic game rather than sharp tactical battles.

In recent years, the opening has been somewhat revitalized by the use of modern engines, which have found new ideas and resources for Black. However, it remains a relatively rare choice at the highest level, as most top players prefer more active defenses against 1.e4.

Frequency: 1.3 %Stockfish score: 0.7, depth 48
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
49.8%
5.1%
45.1%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...180070.953.7
1800...200072.254.6
2000...220067.454.3
2200...250066.049.9
2500...62.946.2

Variations:

Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Krause Variation

A solid and flexible chess opening, the Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Krause Variation focuses on strong pawn structure and active piece play.

Frequency: 1.1 %

Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Schlechter Variation

The Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Schlechter Variation is a solid and flexible chess opening that aims to control the center and prepare for pawn breaks.

Frequency: 1 %

Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Delmar Variation

The Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Delmar Variation is a chess opening that focuses on solid pawn structure and flexible development.

Frequency: 0.3 %

Philidor Defense: Hanham, Kmoch Variation

The Philidor Defense: Hanham, Kmoch Variation is a chess opening that involves a strategic pawn structure and aims to establish a solid defense while maintaining flexibility for counterplay.

Frequency: 0.2 %

Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Sharp Variation

The Philidor Defense: Hanham Variation, Sharp Variation is a chess opening that involves a strategic pawn structure and aims to develop the pieces harmoniously.

Frequency: 0.03 %