Tree path 4 levels Grünfeld Defense › Exchange Variation › Classical Variation › Grünfeld Defense: Exchange Variation, Simagin's Improved Variation
- Chess Codex
- Grünfeld Defense D80
- Exchange Variation D85
- Classical Variation D86
- Grünfeld Defense: Exchange Variation, Simagin's Improved Variation D86 you are here
Grünfeld Defense: Exchange Variation, Simagin's Improved Variation
Overview
Grünfeld Defense: Exchange Variation, Simagin's Improved Variation is a specific line in the Closed & Semi-Closed Games family (ECO D86), arising from a recognised theoretical position.
The Closed & Semi-Closed Games group covers closed and semi-closed games — 1.d4 systems characterised by long strategic manoeuvring rather than early tactics.
The line arises from 16 plies — specifically the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. cxd5 Nxd5 5. e4 Nxc3 6. bxc3 Bg7 7. Bc4 O-O 8. Ne2 Nc6.
The line refines Grünfeld Defense: Exchange Variation, Classical Variation, which traces back to the root opening Grünfeld Defense.
Explore the position on the interactive board, study its real-world results from Lichess, and challenge the engine when you are ready.
- ECO code
- D86
- Group
- Closed & Semi-Closed Games (D)
- Plies
- 16
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
8,915 games · White 47.1% / Draw 6.2% / Black 46.7%
| Moves | Games | W / D / B |
|---|---|---|
| O-O | 6,342 | |
| Be3 | 1,999 | |
| h4 | 257 | |
| a4 | 52 | |
| f4 | 39 | |
| Bg5 | 35 | |
| Rb1 | 26 | |
| f3 | 25 |
Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 03:12:35
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