French Defense · C00
Steiner Variation
1. e4 e6 2. c4
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. c4 Fights for d5 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn. Theory calls this the Steiner Variation.
Create a free account to train this line — every note in it is already on this page; an account puts it on a board, with the plan and a drill that walks it.
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.