Queen's Indian Defense: Fianchetto Variation, Kramnik Variation

A solid and flexible chess opening for Black, focusing on controlling the center and preparing for a potential pawn break.

The opening is a popular choice among top-level players, as it offers a solid and flexible setup for Black. It is characterized by Black's decision to fianchetto their light-squared bishop on b7, aiming to control the central squares and put pressure on White's pawn on d4. The Kramnik Variation, named after the former World Chess Champion Vladimir Kramnik, is a specific line within the Fianchetto Variation of the Queen's Indian Defense.

In this variation, White chooses to play an early Re1, which has the idea of supporting the e4 pawn break. This move order allows White to avoid some of the more forcing lines in the Queen's Indian Defense and leads to a slower, more strategic battle. Black's setup is solid and difficult to break down, but it can also be somewhat passive, as Black often has to wait for White to commit to a plan before deciding on their own pawn breaks.

The opening can lead to a variety of pawn structures, depending on how both players choose to proceed. Black's main pawn breaks are typically c5 and d5, while White may aim for e4 or even f4 in some cases. Proper understanding of the resulting pawn structures and piece play is crucial for both sides in this opening.