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B15

Caro-Kann Defense

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Overview

Caro-Kann Defense is a named branch in the Semi-Open Games group of chess theory, classified under ECO B15.

The Semi-Open Games group covers semi-open games — replies to 1.e4 where Black declines the symmetrical 1…e5 in favour of an asymmetric pawn structure.

The line arises from 5 plies — specifically the moves 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3.

In the opening tree, this line branches off from Caro-Kann Defense, part of the broader King's Pawn Game system.

4 named variations grow from this line, including Caro-Kann Defense, Campomanes Attack, Gurgenidze Counterattack, and others.

Together the deeper variations number 13 across the full subtree.

Use the board to walk through every move, check how the position has scored on Lichess, or take it head-to-head against Stockfish.

ECO code: B15
Group: Semi-Open Games (B)
Plies: 5
Parent: Caro-Kann Defense
Direct variations: 4
Total in subtree: 13

This overview is generated automatically from the opening's metadata. Know this line well? Write a description — submissions are reviewed before publishing.

Statistics from Lichess

15,544,739 games · White 49.7% / Draw 5.6% / Black 44.7%

Moves	Games	W / D / B
dxe4	12,671,005
e6	959,182
Nf6	868,050
a6	299,052
g6	273,771
h6	189,678
b5	78,338
e5	43,097

Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 01:07:14

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Variations (4)

Show all 13 sub-variations (full subtree)

Overview

Statistics from Lichess

Variations (4)

Related variations at the same level