Queen's Gambit Declined: Chigorin Defense, Main Line

A dynamic and aggressive chess opening that leads to imbalanced positions and offers both sides chances for an active game.

The Chigorin Defense, Main Line, is a chess opening that arises after the moves 1.d4 d5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.c4 Bg4. It is named after the Russian chess player Mikhail Chigorin, who was one of the leading players in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This opening is characterized by Black's early development of the knight to c6 and the bishop to g4, putting pressure on White's center and creating an imbalanced position.

The Chigorin Defense is considered a somewhat offbeat opening, as it does not adhere to the classical principles of controlling the center with pawns. However, it can lead to sharp and interesting play, with both sides having chances for an active game.

In the Main Line, White usually continues with 4.Nc3, defending the pawn on d4 and preparing to challenge Black's center with e2-e3. Black can respond with various moves, such as 4...e6, 4...Nf6, or 4...dxc4, each leading to different pawn structures and middlegame plans.

The Chigorin Defense can be a good weapon for Black players who are looking for a less theoretical and more aggressive alternative to the more popular Queen's Gambit Declined lines. It is important for both sides to be familiar with the typical plans and ideas in this opening, as the resulting positions can be quite complex and require precise play.