Petrov's Defense: Karklins-Martinovsky Variation
Petrov's Defense: Karklins-Martinovsky Variation
Definition
The Karklins-Martinovsky Variation is a branch of Petrov’s Defense (also called the Russian Game). It arises after both sides exchange pawns on e4 and e5 and White chooses the set-up with an early 5.d4, followed by Bd3, O-O, Re1 and, in many cases, the space-gaining thrust c2-c4. The usual move-order is:
- 1.e4 e5
- 2.Nf3 Nf6
- 3.Nxe5 d6
- 4.Nf3 Nxe4
- 5.d4 d5 (equalising the centre)
- 6.Bd3 Be7
- 7.O-O O-O
- 8.Re1 (the signature move of the Karklins-Martinovsky system)
From this position White often continues 9.c4, striking at the black centre. The line is catalogued in ECO under C42.
Strategic Ideas
- Symmetrical Centre, Asymmetrical Plans. After 5…d5 the pawn structure is perfectly symmetrical, yet the initiative often tilts toward the side that first creates tension (usually White with c4 or Black with …c5).
- King-side Piece Pressure. White’s Re1, Bd3, and Nc3 aim at the e-file and the h7-square, a typical motif in the Russian Game.
- Counterblows for Black. Black seeks counterplay with …c5, …Bg4, or simplifying trades such as …Nc6-b4/c6-d2.
- Endgame-Friendly. Because the queens usually remain on the board but pawn structures are solid, many games drift into equal but intricate endgames in which the bishop pair or a more active king can become decisive.
Historical Background
The variation is named after Latvian-American master Andrew Karklins (U.S. Open co-winner, 1966) and Czech master Bruno Martinovsky, both of whom championed the line in the 1960s. Their frequent adoption of the 8.Re1 system against the Petrov helped popularise it among tournament players looking for a sound but fighting alternative to the sharper 5.c4 (the Steinitz Attack).
Typical Plans and Themes
- White
- Play c2-c4 to seize space and provoke …dxc4, recapturing with Bxc4 to obtain a mobile centre.
- Double rooks on the e-file and aim for e4-e5 breaks.
- Exploit the Petrov bishop on d3 toward h7 in attacking scenarios (often after Ng5).
- Black
- Maintain symmetry and liquidate when convenient, banking on Petrov’s reputation for solidity.
- Counterstrike with …c5 or …Bg4, or reroute a knight to f5 after …Nd7-f8-g6.
- Exchange a pair of minor pieces to ease cramped play; the endgame is usually completely sound for Black.
Illustrative Mini-Game
The following condensed PGN shows a common way the struggle unfolds. Note how each side follows its standard scheme.
White’s 16.Qxc4 recaptures the pawn, keeps the bishop pair, and introduces a small edge. Meanwhile Black’s structure is intact, demonstrating the balanced nature of the line.
Representative Master Games
- Andrew Karklins – Robert Byrne, U.S. Open 1966 Karklins used 8.Re1 followed by 11.c4 to outplay the future grandmaster in a long queenside squeeze.
- Bruno Martinovsky – Vlastimil Hort, Czechoslovak Championship 1963 After an early …c5 break Hort dissolved the centre and the game fizzled to a draw, illustrating Black’s principal equalising plan.
- Smirin – Kramnik, Belgrade 1995 Kramnik’s choice of the Karklins-Martinovsky drew easily, showcasing the line’s elite-level reliability.
Theory Table (Snapshot)
Modern engines rate the main tabiya after 8.Re1 as roughly equal (≈0.20 according to Stockfish 16 at depth 35). Current correspondence practice continues to test 9.c4, 9.Nc3, and 9.Bxe4.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- Andrew Karklins reputedly analysed the line while working night shifts as a security guard, logging hundreds of handwritten pages that circulated informally among U.S. masters.
- Because the variation often leads to symmetrical pawn structures, some club players jokingly call it the “Handshake Variation”— a tongue-in-cheek nod to its drawish reputation.
- In one ICCF (correspondence) event a complete ten-game mini-match between two grandmasters featured the exact same Petrov Karklins-Martinovsky tabiya; every game was drawn, yet the players produced over 700 moves of original analysis!
Why Study the Karklins-Martinovsky?
Players who like sound, classical positions with ample manoeuvring possibilities will feel at home in this system. White retains practical chances without excessive risk, while Black enjoys a proven drawing weapon that still allows for counter-attacking play. For these reasons the variation remains a staple in the repertoires of solid grandmasters and ambitious amateurs alike.