French Defense: Classical Variation, Frankfurt Variation

The Classical Variation, Frankfurt Variation is a solid and strategic opening for Black in response to 1.e4.

This variation of the French Defense typically involves Black fianchettoing their bishop to b7 to control the long diagonal and prepare for a solid defense. By playing b6, Black aims to develop their light-squared bishop to a more active diagonal while also preparing to fianchetto their dark-squared bishop. White's main focus in this opening is to control the center with pawns on d4 and e5, putting pressure on Black's position. The move Nc3 is a common move in this variation, developing a knight and preparing for further central expansion. Black's move Nf6 aims to challenge White's central pawn on e5 and develop a piece to a central square. The move Bg5 puts pressure on Black's knight on f6, forcing Black to make a decision on how to defend it. The move Be7 is a flexible move, preparing to castle kingside and connecting the rooks. White's move Be3 is a solid developing move, preparing to castle kingside and reinforcing the central pawn on e5.