Tree path 6 levels Grünfeld Defense › Three Knights Variation › Grünfeld Defense: Three Knights Variation › Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation › Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation › Smyslov Variation
Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Smyslov Variation
Overview
Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Smyslov Variation is a specific line in the Closed & Semi-Closed Games family (ECO D98), 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.
It begins with 14 plies and takes 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Qb3 dxc4 6. Qxc4 O-O 7. e4 Bg4 to reach the canonical position.
The line refines Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, which traces back to the root opening Grünfeld Defense.
The line splits into 2 documented sub-systems: Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Keres Variation, Grünfeld Defense: Russian Variation, Smyslov Variation.
Together the deeper variations number 3 across the full subtree.
Explore the position on the interactive board, study its real-world results from Lichess, and challenge the engine when you are ready.
- ECO code
- D98
- Group
- Closed & Semi-Closed Games (D)
- Plies
- 14
- Direct variations
- 2
- Total in subtree
- 3
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
10,318 games · White 49.3% / Draw 6.6% / Black 44.2%
| Moves | Games | W / D / B |
|---|---|---|
| Be2 | 4,751 | |
| Be3 | 3,316 | |
| Ne5 | 1,251 | |
| e5 | 683 | |
| Bf4 | 218 | |
| h3 | 44 | |
| Bg5 | 19 | |
| d5 | 7 |
Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 03:01:14
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