Kings Indian Defense Smyslov Variation
King's Indian Defense, Smyslov Variation
Definition
The Smyslov Variation is a branch of the King's Indian Defense that arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. Nf3 d6 5. Bg5. Named after the seventh World Champion, Vasily Smyslov, this line is characterized by White’s early development of the dark-squared bishop to g5, pinning the f6-knight and discouraging Black’s typical …e7–e5 break.
Typical Move Order
The most common continuations begin:
- 5…h6 6. Bh4 g5 7. Bg3 – the main Smyslov sequence, where Black gains space on the kingside at the cost of weakening dark squares.
- 5…c6 – a solid alternative, preparing …Qa5 or …a6 and delaying kingside commitments.
- 5…Nbd7 or 5…0-0 – flexible set-ups that keep options open.
Strategic Ideas
Both sides must balance piece activity with pawn-structure considerations:
- White’s Goals
- Maintain the pin on the f6-knight to hinder …e5.
- Prepare central expansion with e2–e4 or d4–d5 when opportune.
- Exploit the dark-square weaknesses (h6, f6, g7) if Black advances …h6–g5.
- Black’s Goals
- Break the pin, often with …h6 and …g5 or by rerouting the knight via d7.
- Achieve the thematic pawn break …e7–e5 or, in some lines, …c6 and …d5.
- Use queenside counterplay (…a6, …b5) when the kingside is sealed.
Historical Significance
Vasily Smyslov began experimenting with 5.Bg5 in the 1950s, searching for a positional alternative to the razor-sharp Classical & Fianchetto lines. His adoption of the system encouraged other elite players—most notably Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov—to try the idea periodically as a surprise weapon.
Illustrative Example
One of the earliest showcase games was Smyslov – Tal, USSR Championship 1959:
Smyslov demonstrated how to keep the position solid and exploit the queenside weaknesses after Black’s early …c6 and …Qa5 plan.
Modern Usage
Although less popular than the Mar del Plata or Fianchetto systems, the Smyslov Variation remains a reliable surprise line at the top level. Grandmasters such as Peter Svidler and Teimour Radjabov have used it in rapid and blitz events to sidestep heavy computer preparation.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- In 1965 Smyslov famously played 5.Bg5 against Fischer, who responded with the then-new idea 5…c6; the game ended peacefully, but Fischer later adapted the line as Black himself.
- The variation often transposes into a Benoni-like structure if Black plays …c5 and White advances d4–d5, giving both players fresh middlegame challenges.
- Engines rate the immediate 5.Bg5 as roughly equal, yet practical results show a slight plus for White in human play, highlighting the line’s positional venom.
Quick Reference
ECO Codes: E61-E64
Key Position after 5.Bg5: