Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...c6/2. d4/2...d5

= Caro–Kann Defence =

2...d5
This is the main line of the Caro–Kann. It is a semi-open game that tends to contain lines with minor piece play. In this position, White has four ways to deal with the central tension:


 * 1) Attempt to close the center with /3. e5/, the Advance Variation.
 * 2) Exchange a set of pawns with /3. exd5/.
 * 3) Wait for Black to exchange pawns with either /3. Nc3/ or /3. Nd2/, the Classical Variation. The two knight moves usually lead to the same position after 3...dxe4 4. Nxe4.
 * 4) Prepare to recapture in the center with a pawn by /3. f3/, aiming to keep a full pawn center.

Note that after 3. Bd3?!, 3... dxe4 4. Bxe4 Nf6 gives Black the initiative.

Theory table
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5