March '00 Update
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The Classical Caro-Kann was examined in the November update, but it's necessary to take a look at it again. The theory of this line develops rapidly, and there have been quite a few theoretically important games in this line since November. We also take a look at some important recent games which have been played in the Smyslov Variation and in response to an email request I wrap up by giving some analysis on the 3. Bb5+ line of the Scandinavian from White's viewpoint. |
Caro-Kann
AV149 Another important game from Gabriel Blasberg, an old adherent of the Bronstein-Larsen variation. In a well known position which was considered as very bad for Black he finds a new resource and seizes the initiative.
AV150 Before this game the whole line featuring the positional 14 Kb1 in the Smyslov was considered harmless, but here is a simple but powerful plan successfully executed in two very recent games.
AV151 A game to serve as confirmation of the viability of Black's position after 11...Kf8 in the Smyslov.
AV145 Currently 8 Ne5 is White's main weapon against the modern 7...Nf6 in the Classical. Here we examine a move which has become popular due to the efforts of GM Vladimir Epishin, who is a leading expert in the Caro-Kann. Black delays the development of his Queen's Knight, retaining the possibility of putting it either on d7 or c6 (after ...c6-c5).
AV146 Quite an interesting idea by White. To exploit the omission of ...Nbd7 White intends a g-pawn thrust, launching a direct K-side attack.
AV147 In the sharp 6 Bc4 line Black plays to prevent White's f4-f5 breakthrough but nevertheless it still works as a sacrifice. Just one more careless move and Black's position is barely defensible!
AV148 Here Black tries a very interesting move. He voluntarily spoils his pawn structure, but as compensation he obtains firm control over the important e4 square. Besides White's dark-squared Bishop becomes restricted by the f4-pawn and can find few prospects elsewhere...
Center Counter
AV152 4 Be2 has achieved a certain degree of popularity in recent practice and is in fact considered to be the most dangerous for Black in the 3 Bb5+ line. We kick off with an excellent game where White exploits the drawbacks of Black's robotic set-up very convincingly.
AV153 Another rare but very interesting gambit line. Despite the speedy disaster in this game this whole idea looks quite viable. The theory of this line is based on just a few games, and there is much scope for further investigation.
AV154 In my opinion the line against 4 Be2 considered in this game is the most solid for Black. White has a certain advantage in space but Black has counterchances due to his pressure on the d4-pawn.