English Opening: King's English Variation, Four Knights Variation, Fianchetto Line, with Bc5

This variation of the English Opening focuses on developing the pieces harmoniously and controlling the center with a fianchettoed bishop.

In this variation, White starts by playing c4, aiming to control the center and prepare for fianchettoing the bishop. Black responds symmetrically with e5, and both sides continue to develop their knights and bishops. The move g3 prepares to fianchetto the bishop on g2, adding pressure to the long diagonal. Black counters by playing d5, challenging White's central pawn on d4. After exchanging pawns in the center, both sides continue to develop their pieces, with White focusing on completing development and Black aiming to create active piece play. The move Bc5 puts pressure on White's knight on f3 and prepares to castle kingside. This opening leads to a balanced position with chances for both sides to play actively in the middlegame.