English Opening: King's English Variation, Four Knights Variation, Fianchetto Line, with .. d6, h6

This variation of the English Opening focuses on solid development and control of the center, with a fianchettoed bishop and a flexible pawn structure.

In this variation, White starts by playing c4, aiming to control the center and prepare for fianchettoing the bishop. Black responds with e5, establishing a strong pawn presence in the center. Both sides then develop their knights to natural squares before White plays g3, preparing to fianchetto the bishop on g2. Black mirrors White's development, bringing the bishop out to c5 and reinforcing the center with d6. White continues to solidify their position with d3 and Black follows suit with d6, preparing to support the center with further pawn moves. The move h6 is played by Black to prevent any potential pin along the g5-a1 diagonal. This opening leads to a flexible and balanced position for both sides, with opportunities for strategic maneuvering and piece development.