Openings

King's Indian Defense: Orthodox Variation

1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 Bg7 4.e4 d6 5.Nf3 O-O 6.Be2

In the Orthodox Variation against the King's Indian, White creates a three-pawn center and develops his kingside naturally. Generally after a later ...e5 White will create a pawn wedge with d4-d5, followed by queenside play. The opposing pawn chains create spheres of influence on opposite sides of the board.

Pros:

  • Sound play
  • Gives White a space advantage
  • White can get a strong attack on the queenside

Cons:

  • The white king can come under great attack
  • Very theoretical
Lesson

Learn the King's Indian Defense

Learn the essentials of the King's Indian Defense with an educational video on move order, pawn structures, and key themes to know.
19 min
10 Challenges
Top Players