French Defense · C00
Horwitz Attack
1. e4 e6 2. b3
In the centre, White holds e4.
The first 3 moves, explained
- 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 1... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Defense.
- 2. b3 Prepares the fianchetto: the bishop will take the long diagonal via b2. Theory calls this the Horwitz Attack.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 212 in the French Defense. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.