47+ Names of Chess Defenses (List)

There are numerous defenses in chess, each arising from different openings.

We’ll cover them in various forms of detail in this article.

Table of Contents

Names of Chess Defenses

Here’s a list of some of the most common and notable defenses:

King’s Pawn Openings (1.e4 e5)
- Ruy-Lopez Defense
- Philidor Defense
- Petrov (or Russian) Defense
- Elephant Gambit
- Latvian Gambit
- Two Knights Defense
- Bishop’s Opening
- Vienna Game
Sicilian Defense (1.e4 c5)
- Open Sicilian
- Closed Sicilian
- Dragon Variation
- Najdorf Variation
- Scheveningen Variation
- Accelerated Dragon
- Sveshnikov Variation
- Paulsen/Kan Variation
- Alapin Variation
- Smith-Morra Gambit
French Defense (1.e4 e6)
- Advance Variation
- Classical Variation
- Winawer Variation
- Tarrasch Variation
- Exchange Variation
Caro-Kann Defense (1.e4 c6)
- Classical (or Mainline) Variation
- Advanced Variation
- Panov-Botvinnik Attack
- Tartakower (or Fantasy) Variation
- Bronstein-Larsen Variation
Pirc Defense (1.e4 d6)
- Classical (or Two Knights) System
- Austrian Attack
- Ufimtsev-Pytel Variation
Modern Defense (1.e4 g6)
Scandinavian Defense (1.e4 d5)
Alekhine’s Defense (1.e4 Nf6)
Owen’s Defense (1.e4 b6)
Center Counter Defense (also known as the Scandinavian Defense)
King’s Indian Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6)
Queen’s Pawn Game (1.d4 d5)
- Queen’s Gambit Declined (QGD)
- Queen’s Gambit Accepted (QGA)
- Slav Defense
- Semi-Slav Defense
- Albin Counter-Gambit
- Chigorin Defense
- Baltic Defense
- Tarrasch Defense
- Orthodox Defense
- Ragozin Defense
Indian Defenses (1.d4 Nf6)
- Nimzo-Indian Defense
- Queen’s Indian Defense
- Bogo-Indian Defense
- Grünfeld Defense
- Old Indian Defense
Dutch Defense (1.d4 f5)
Benoni Defense (1.d4 c5)
- Modern Benoni
- Czech Benoni
- Benko (or Volga) Gambit
English Defense (1…b6)
English Opening (1.c4) Responses
- Symmetrical Variation
- Reversed Sicilian
- Botvinnik System

Names of Chess Defenses with Brief Descriptions

King’s Pawn Openings (1.e4 e5)
- Ruy-Lopez Defense: An ancient and classical opening, where White targets Black’s e5 pawn with his bishop.
- Philidor Defense: Prioritizes a solid pawn structure for Black in the center.
- Petrov (or Russian) Defense: Black directly challenges White’s central pawn, often leading to symmetrical positions.
- Elephant Gambit: A counter-attacking response to 1.e4 aiming for quick development.
- Latvian Gambit: An aggressive gambit where Black sacrifices a pawn early for rapid development.
- Two Knights Defense: A sharp line arising after the development of both knights.
- Bishop’s Opening: White develops the f1 bishop early to target the center.
- Vienna Game: Focuses on quick development and kingside attack.
Sicilian Defense (1.e4 c5)
- Open Sicilian: Denoted by d2-d4 by White, leading to imbalanced, dynamic positions.
- Closed Sicilian: Characterized by d3 instead of d4, leading to a slower, strategic battle.
- Dragon Variation: Black fianchettos the kingside bishop aiming for counterplay.
- Najdorf Variation: A rich and deep variation favored by many world champions.
- Scheveningen Variation: Black builds a compact pawn structure in the center.
- Accelerated Dragon: A quicker route into the Dragon-like structures.
- Sveshnikov Variation: Features pawn weaknesses for Black in return for active piece play.
- Paulsen/Kan Variation: Black develops flexibly, often delaying the development of the knight.
- Alapin Variation: White’s 2.c3 supports a future d4 push.
- Smith-Morra Gambit: White sacrifices a pawn early for rapid development.
French Defense (1.e4 e6)
- Advance Variation: White advances the e-pawn to gain space.
- Classical Variation: Black develops naturally aiming for a solid structure.
- Winawer Variation: An early …Bb4 by Black creates imbalances.
- Tarrasch Variation: White opens up the position, allowing Black’s knight to pin the c3 knight.
- Exchange Variation: White immediately trades in the center, often leading to symmetrical pawn structures.
Caro-Kann Defense (1.e4 c6)
- Classical (or Mainline) Variation: Solid development with a pawn break in the center.
- Advanced Variation: White immediately claims space, forcing Black to counteract.
- Panov-Botvinnik Attack: Arises after cxd5 and d4, leading to isolated queen’s pawn positions.
- Tartakower (or Fantasy) Variation: A sharp line where White plays f3, supporting the center.
- Bronstein-Larsen Variation: Black opts for a unique knight maneuver to challenge White’s center.
Pirc Defense (1.e4 d6)
- Classical (or Two Knights) System: Leads to solid positions with both sides developing naturally.
- Austrian Attack: An aggressive approach by White, advancing the f-pawn early.
- Ufimtsev-Pytel Variation: Features an early …c6 and …d5 pawn break for Black.
Modern Defense (1.e4 g6): Black allows White to occupy the center early, aiming for counterplay later.
Scandinavian Defense (1.e4 d5): Directly challenges White’s pawn, aiming for quick development and counter-attack.
Alekhine’s Defense (1.e4 Nf6): Provokes White to advance pawns, which Black aims to undermine later.
Owen’s Defense (1.e4 b6): Fianchetto setup for Black, aiming for flexibility and control over the light squares.
Center Counter Defense (Scandinavian Defense): Another name for the Scandinavian Defense.
King’s Indian Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6): A hypermodern defense where Black allows White to occupy the center and then counter-attacks.
Queen’s Pawn Game (1.d4 d5)
- Queen’s Gambit Declined (QGD): A solid response, keeping the pawn structure intact.
- Queen’s Gambit Accepted (QGA): Black captures the c4 pawn, opting for a pawn deficit but active play.
- Slav Defense: A solid setup maintaining the integrity of Black’s pawn structure.
- Semi-Slav Defense: Combines elements of the QGD and the Slav, leading to a rich middlegame.
- Albin Counter-Gambit: An aggressive pawn sacrifice by Black for quick development.
- Chigorin Defense: Prioritizes piece activity over pawns in the center.
- Baltic Defense: An early …Bf5 by Black, leading to unorthodox play.
- Tarrasch Defense: Black challenges White’s center with an early …c5.
- Orthodox Defense: Classical development in the QGD, maintaining pawn integrity.
- Ragozin Defense: Combines elements of the QGD and the Nimzo-Indian, leading to complex play.
Indian Defenses (1.d4 Nf6)
- Nimzo-Indian Defense: Characterized by …Bb4, pinning the c3 knight and fighting for control of the e4 square.
- Queen’s Indian Defense: Focuses on controlling the light squares with a fianchetto setup.
- Bogo-Indian Defense: Similar to the Nimzo, but the pin is broken quickly by Black.
- Grünfeld Defense: Allows White to establish a pawn center, aiming for counterplay against it.
- Old Indian Defense: A flexible setup with a solid pawn structure.
Dutch Defense (1.d4 f5): An aggressive setup aiming for kingside play.
Benoni Defense (1.d4 c5)
- Modern Benoni: Creates a pawn chain, leading to a fight for the e5 and d5 squares.
- Czech Benoni: A more solid but passive setup.
- Benko (or Volga) Gambit: Black sacrifices a pawn on the queenside for open lines and activity.
English Defense (1…b6): Similar to Owen’s, but arises after 1.d4.
English Opening (1.c4) Responses
- Symmetrical Variation: Black mirrors White’s moves, often leading to balanced play.
- Reversed Sicilian: Black adopts a Sicilian-like structure, but with an extra tempo.
- Botvinnik System: A particular pawn structure and setup aiming for central control.

Each of these defenses and their variations offer unique challenges and opportunities, catering to a wide range of playing styles.

What Is the Caro-Kann Defense?

The Caro-Kann Defense is a chess opening characterized by the moves 1.e4 c6. It is a solid and flexible defense that can be used against 1.e4, and it is named after Marcus Kann and Horatio Caro, who introduced it to the chess world in the late 19th century.

Some lines in the Caro-Kann Defense include:

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5: This is the main line of the Caro-Kann Defense, and it leads to positions with a symmetrical pawn structure.
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4: This is a sharp variation of the Caro-Kann Defense in which Black sacrifices a pawn in order to develop their pieces quickly.
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2: This is a quieter line of the Caro-Kann Defense that aims to develop the knight to a more central square before committing to a pawn structure.
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2 dxe4 4.Nxe4: This is a line of the Caro-Kann Defense in which Black allows White to capture the pawn on d5, leading to a slightly asymmetrical pawn structure.
1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.exd5 cxd5: This is a line of the Caro-Kann Defense in which Black chooses to exchange pawns on d5, leading to a slightly asymmetrical pawn structure.

There are many other lines that can be played in the Caro-Kann Defense, and the choice of which line to play will depend on the preferences and style of the player.

What are the most common defenses to the King’s Pawn Opening?

The most common defenses to the King’s Pawn Opening (1.e4 e5) include the Ruy-Lopez Defense, the Italian Game, the Philidor Defense, and the Petrov or Russian Defense. Each of these defenses offers a different approach to the central pawn structure and has a rich history of associated theory.

How did the Sicilian Defense get its name?

The Sicilian Defense is named after Pietro Carrera, an Italian priest and chess player from Sicily, who mentioned this opening in his works in the 17th century. Over time, this popular chess opening became associated with the name of the island.

For a full guide on the Sicilian Defense, the PPQTY expert resource on the Sicilian is a great option.

Which chess defenses are considered the most aggressive?

Several defenses in chess are known for their aggressive nature, including the Sicilian Dragon Variation, the King’s Indian Defense, the Latvian Gambit, and the Dutch Defense. These defenses often lead to imbalanced positions and sharp tactical battles, making them popular choices for aggressive players.

Are there any defenses named after famous chess players?

Yes, many defenses are named after famous chess players who popularized or significantly developed them. Examples include the Alekhine’s Defense (after Alexander Alekhine), the Nimzo-Indian Defense (after Aron Nimzowitsch), the Grünfeld Defense (after Ernst Grünfeld), and the Pirc Defense (after Vasja Pirc), to name a few.

How do the names of chess defenses relate to their actual strategies on the board?

The names of chess defenses often have historical, geographical, or descriptive origins. While some, like the King’s Indian Defense, hint at a general setup or formation (in this case, a fianchettoed kingside bishop), others, like the French or Sicilian Defense, are named for regions or players. The name itself doesn’t always provide detailed insights into the specific strategies employed but offers a label for easier reference and study.

Which defenses are recommended for beginner players?

For beginner players, it’s often recommended to start with defenses that promote solid pawn structures and fundamental principles of development and central control. Defenses such as the Italian Game, the Double King’s Pawn (1.e4 e5), and the Queen’s Gambit Declined are solid choices. As players advance, they can explore more complex and nuanced defenses.

Are there any unusual or rarely played defenses that can surprise an opponent?

Yes, there are offbeat defenses that can take opponents out of mainstream theory and into less familiar territory. Examples include the Elephant Gambit, the St. George Defense, and the Budapest Gambit. While these might not be as theoretically sound as the mainlines, they can be effective surprise weapons, especially in rapid or blitz games.

How does the French Defense differ from the Caro-Kann Defense?

Both the French Defense and the Caro-Kann Defense are responses to 1.e4 by Black and aim to counter White’s central space advantage. In the French Defense (1.e4 e6), Black prepares to challenge White’s center with …d5, often leading to a characteristic pawn chain structure. In contrast, the Caro-Kann Defense (1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5) immediately challenges the e4 pawn and often leads to more fluid pawn structures. The Caro-Kann typically offers Black more active piece play earlier on, while the French can be more closed and strategic.

What are the main ideas behind the King’s Indian Defense?

The King’s Indian Defense is a hypermodern opening where Black allows White to occupy the center early, with the intent of counter-attacking it later. Black’s setup typically involves a fianchettoed kingside bishop and a pawn break with …e5 or …d5. The King’s Indian Defense is known for its rich strategic and tactical themes, often leading to opposite-side castling and fierce battles.

How often are new defenses or variations named in modern chess?

New defenses and variations are named less frequently than in the past, mainly because many of the main opening lines have been extensively explored. However, with the rise of computer engines and their impact on opening theory, occasionally a new approach or a line might become popular and get its own name. This is often the case when a top player or a group of players frequently employs a particular line in high-level games.

What is the difference between an opening and a defense in chess terminology?

In chess terminology, an “opening” refers to the initial series of moves played by both sides. It sets the stage for the middlegame. A “defense,” on the other hand, typically refers to a specific set of responses by Black to White’s opening moves. For instance, after 1.e4, the move …c5 denotes the Sicilian Defense, and …e5 leads to the Double King’s Pawn openings.

Are there chess defenses that have gone out of favor in modern play?

Yes, with advancements in opening theory, some defenses have been found to be less sound or not as effective and have therefore gone out of favor. For instance, the King’s Gambit was highly popular in the 19th century but is less commonly seen at the top level today due to defensive resources available to Black. However, many of these older defenses still find a place in club play or among players who prefer offbeat or surprise openings.

How do grandmasters choose which defense to employ in a game?

Grandmasters base their choice on several factors, including their personal style, their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, the requirements of the tournament situation, and their level of preparation in a particular line. With vast opening repertoires, grandmasters also aim to avoid their opponent’s preparation, making their choice of defense a blend of strategy, psychology, and preparation.

Which defenses are considered solid and hard to crack?

Defenses such as the Queen’s Gambit Declined, the Petrov Defense, and the Slav Defense are historically considered solid and hard to crack. These openings prioritize a solid pawn structure and central control, leading to fewer weaknesses and making them a popular choice among players seeking a reliable and sturdy defensive system.

Are there any defenses that are particularly favored in rapid or blitz chess?

In rapid and blitz chess, where the time factor is crucial, players often favor defenses that are tricky, tactical, or less well-known to catch their opponents off guard. Defenses like the Budapest Gambit, the Benko Gambit, or even the Alekhine’s Defense might be seen more often in faster time controls due to their potential for surprising the opponent and inducing mistakes.

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