Classical Variation
Caro-Kann Defence · B18 · you play Black. 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5 5.Ng3 Bg6
About the Classical Variation
The Classical Caro-Kann, 4...Bf5, is the traditional main line. White gains space with h4–h5 and Black tucks the bishop away on h7, then develops with ...e6, ...Nd7 and ...Ngf6. Black's structure is rock-solid; the question is whether White's kingside space turns into an attack.
Playing the Caro-Kann Defence as Black? The Classical Variation (B18) begins 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5, and is one of 5 lines you can practise here. Learn the Classical Variation move by move, then play it against the computer until the book moves come automatically. Below the board you find middlegame plans for the Classical Variation, common endgames and games by strong players, so you know what to do once the theory ends. Add it to your repertoire of chess defences for Black, and repeat it in speed mode or the drill until you no longer have to think about it.