Queen's Gambit Declined: Chigorin Defense

A classic chess opening, the Chigorin Defense is a counterattacking option for Black that challenges White's center and can lead to dynamic play.

The Chigorin Defense is a chess opening that arises after specific initial moves. Named after the Russian grandmaster Mikhail Chigorin, this opening is a branch of a well-known family of openings. It is considered an offbeat and somewhat unorthodox choice for Black, as it does not adhere to the traditional principles of developing knights before bishops and maintaining a pawn presence in the center.

In this opening, Black aims to counterattack White's center by quickly developing the knight to a certain square, which can later be supported by the pawn on e7 advancing to e5. This opening can lead to dynamic and imbalanced positions, as both sides have chances for active play and tactical opportunities.

White's most common response is a certain move, which prepares to support the center with e2-e3 and allows for the development of the light-squared bishop. Other options for White include different moves, both of which can lead to different pawn structures and middlegame plans.

While this opening is not as popular as other lines in the same family, it has been employed by several strong grandmasters, including Alexander Morozevich and Vassily Ivanchuk. The opening can catch opponents off guard and lead to interesting and complex battles on the board.