Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation

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Opening Overview: Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation

By playing Nd7, the player enters the Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation, a system within the Caro-Kann Defense complex. While h6 is the consensus choice, Nd7 offers a fresh perspective. It succeeds by maintaining a solid objective evaluation while changing the character of the game. This move improves the Knight's scope. Note that engines consider this speculative, often preferring safer alternatives.

Critical Concepts

  • Emphasize piece activity and king safety as lines open rapidly.
  • Control the long diagonal to exert lasting pressure.
  • Feature: Open Center, Fianchetto

In the resulting middlegame, players must focus on how to prioritize piece activity and king safety as lines open quickly. Data analysis shows a 41% win rate for White, indicating White advantage.

Also known as: Caro-Kann: Steinitz Variation, Karpov Variation, Caro-Kann; B17, Caro-Kann: Steinitz variation

Stockfish Analysis of Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation:
+0.84 Slight Advantage (White)
Click "Start Analysis" for depth 20+

Similar Variations

Technical Details for Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation

  • ECO Code: B17
  • Est. Win Rate: W: 41% / B: 24%
  • Moves: 12
  • Aliases: Caro-Kann: Steinitz Variation, Karpov Variation, Caro-Kann; B17, Caro-Kann: Steinitz variation, Karpov Variation, Caro-Kann; B17
View all Caro-Kann Defense

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