Queen's Pawn Game: Chigorin Variation (variation 7)

This opening is characterized by White's early development of the knight to c3 after playing d4 and Black's response with e6.

In this variation, White aims to control the center with the pawn on d4 and the knight on c3, preparing for further development. Black's move e6 supports the pawn on d5 and prepares for the development of the light-squared bishop. This setup allows both players to develop their pieces harmoniously and prepare for the middlegame.

The Chigorin Variation is a flexible option for both sides, as it does not commit to a specific pawn structure or pawn break early on. White can choose to fianchetto the bishop on g2 or play e4 to expand in the center, while Black can choose between setups with c6 and dxc4 or Nf6 and c5. This opening often leads to strategic battles where both players have chances for active play and counterplay.

Overall, the Queen's Pawn Game: Chigorin Variation is a solid and balanced opening choice for players looking to avoid more heavily theoretical lines and navigate the middlegame with a variety of plans and ideas.