Tarrasch Defense: Classical Variation, Réti Variation

The Tarrasch Defense: Classical Variation, Réti Variation is a chess opening that leads to a dynamic and strategically rich middlegame, with chances for both sides.

1. d4 2. d5 3. c4 4. e6 5. Nf3 6. c5 7. cxd5 8. exd5 9. Nc3 10. Nc6 11. g3 12. Nf6 13. Bg2 14. Be7 15. O-O 16. O-O 17. dxc5 18. Bxc5 19. Na4

The opening is characterized by an early pawn exchange in the center, followed by rapid piece development and castling for both sides. White aims to exploit the central pawn majority and create pressure on the d5 pawn, while Black seeks counterplay on the queenside and in the center. The key move in this variation is White's g3, preparing to fianchetto the light-squared bishop and support the central pawn structure.

The Réti Variation of the Tarrasch Defense is named after the Czech Grandmaster Richard Réti, who was known for his innovative and unorthodox approach to chess. This variation is considered to be one of the more solid and reliable options for Black in the Tarrasch Defense, as it avoids some of the more aggressive and sharp lines that can arise from other move orders.

In this variation, Black's pawn structure is slightly compromised, but they have active piece play and potential counterplay on the queenside. White's main plan is to exploit the central pawn majority and create pressure on the d5 pawn, while Black seeks counterplay on the queenside and in the center.

Both sides have chances for an advantage in this opening, and it often leads to a dynamic and strategically rich middlegame. The Tarrasch Defense: Classical Variation, Réti Variation is a popular choice for players who enjoy complex and challenging positions with opportunities for both sides to outplay their opponent.

Frequency: 8.8 %Stockfish score: 0.3, depth 22
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
48.7%
23.3%
28%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...1800--
1800...200058.441.6
2000...220057.542.5
2200...250054.149.4
2500...56.647