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B15

Caro-Kann Defense

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Overview

Caro-Kann Defense is a specific line in the Semi-Open Games family (ECO B15), arising from a recognised theoretical position.

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.

Play reaches this position via 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4, after 6 plies of opening development.

The line refines Caro-Kann Defense, which traces back to the root opening King's Pawn Game.

The line has 7 documented children — Alekhine Gambit, Alien Gambit, Bronstein-Larsen Variation, and others being widely played.

In total, the branch covers 9 sub-variations across all depths.

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ECO code: B15
Group: Semi-Open Games (B)
Plies: 6
Parent: Caro-Kann Defense
Direct variations: 7
Total in subtree: 9

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

12,708,734 games · White 49.1% / Draw 5.9% / Black 45.0%

Moves	Games	W / D / B
Nxe4	11,539,508
f3	756,861
Bc4	326,190
Be3	24,185
Bf4	21,647
d5	16,676
Nge2	6,836
Bg5	4,449

Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 01:20:15

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Variations (7)

Show all 9 sub-variations (full subtree)

Overview

Statistics from Lichess

Variations (7)

Related variations at the same level