Group 3: Semi-Open Defenses

• French Defence 1 e4 e6 - a fighting defence rich in tactical and strategical complexities.
• Center Counter 1 e4 d5; a stodgy defence which has gained a lot of respect since Anand surprised Kasparov with it.
• Alekhine's Defence The hypermodern 1 e4 Nf6 entices White to overextend in the center.
• Pirc / Modern Defence 1 e4 d6 2 d4 Nf6 (or 2 ... g6). Black looks for counterplay with his fianchettoed king bishop.
• Caro-Kann Defence With 1 e4 c6 Black concedes the "little center" but obtains full development in a weakness-free position. Used by Anatoly Karpov to propel himself back to the top.