Slav Defense Theory: Schlechter Variation

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For an introduction to the opening, watch this video on the basics: https://youtu.be/9RXEvHZmbZU

The Schlechter Variation of the Slav Defense is a very “anti-Slav” like setup for black. Unlike most other variations black can choose from, in the Schlechter the bishop is fianchettoed. That in itself is quite rare in Slav like setups. That means that the issue of the c8 bishop can be resolved in a much easier manner (not that it is often), but by playing g6, Bg7, black keeps his e pawn on e7, thus not blocking in the c8 bishop. He is able to do that because the king can castle without it, due to the f8 bishop going to g7.

That makes the Schlechter unique and useful strategically. When it comes to practical advantages of the opening, its biggest upside is the minimal quantity of theory you have to know. I believe that anyone could play it after an hour of concentrated study and just browsing through several grandmaster games.

Another advantage is that it’s very rared compared to other variations black could choose from. That means that not that many of your opponents will be familiar with it, and you may end up with more time or with a better position!

#chess

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