Karpov Variation of the Caro-Kann Defense (B17) ⎸Chess Openings

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Caro-Kann Defense – Karpov Variation B17 ⎸Chess Openings for Tournament Players

The Karpov Variation is a great way for black to challenge white’s main line against the Caro-Kann. Instead of going for Bf5, the most common move, Nd7 is a great alternative.

For the theory of the Caro-Kann Defense, the basic ideas and principles, watch this video: youtu.be/Jiz7KLKjLas

The variation occurs after the moves:

1.e4 c6
2.d4 d5
3.Nc3 dxe4
4.Nxe4 Nd7 – entering the Karpov Caro-Kann. From this position on white has five main replies, each is covered in detail. The most common reply, and the main line of the Karpov Variation is:

1:45 5.Nf3

The alternatives are:

10:19 5. Bc4 – the most common sideline, often transposing to Nf3
13:46 5. Ng5 – an aggressive line, but easily dealt with
15:08 5. Qe2 – a one-trick line in which black easily equalizes
16:00 5. Bd3 – this is the most passive continuation for white

The Karpov is very solid for black and it can often surprise your opponents since not many people know this line. Here are the videos on the more common variations of the Caro-Kann:

The Advance Variation: youtu.be/m9uHKJ1WgbM
The Exchange Variation: youtu.be/SMIhNIXoMNk
The Panov-Botvinnik Attack: youtu.be/hWLTjQ8LMeE
The Fantasy Variation: youtu.be/0yMkAJ6Pyig