1.d4 — the closed and Indian games
Grünfeld, Exchange Variation
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 d5 4.cxd5 Nxd5 5.e4 Nxc3 6.bxc3ECO D85–D89
The critical test of the Grünfeld: White builds a broad pawn centre and Black immediately attacks it with pieces and the …c5 break, in true hypermodern style. A dynamic, deeply-analysed battle — White's centre versus Black's pressure — that remains a main line at the very top.
Key ideas
- White's big e4/d4 centre looks imposing; Black targets it with …c5, …Bg7, …Nc6 and …Qa5/…Bg4.
- If Black cracks the centre it becomes a weakness; if White consolidates it, the space tells.
- It's a razor-sharp theoretical duel — understanding the …c5 timing is essential for both sides.
Who it suits
Well-prepared players who relish a dynamic centre-versus-piece-pressure fight at the highest level.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Grünfeld, Exchange Variation move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer