Slav Defense: Schlechter Variation
Slav Defense: Schlechter Variation
Definition
The Schlechter Variation is a branch of the Slav Defense that arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 dxc4. It is named after the Austrian grandmaster Carl Schlechter (1874–1918), who employed the line in the early 20th century. By capturing the c4-pawn on move four, Black accepts a temporary pawn grab in return for rapid development and a rock-solid pawn structure.
Typical Move Order
The essential tabiya is reached after:
- 1. d4 d5
- 2. c4 c6
- 3. Nf3 Nf6
- 4. Nc3 dxc4
- 5. a4 Bf5 (main line)
- 6. e3 e6
Alternatives for White on move 5 include 5. e4 (the Geller Gambit) and 5. g3, each leading to distinct middlegame structures.
Strategic Themes
- Pawn Economy: Black’s extra c-pawn is often returned later (…b5, …e6 and …c5 are common follow-ups) to achieve harmonious piece play.
- Light-Squared Bishop: Unlike many Slav lines, Black’s bishop escapes the pawn chain via …Bf5 or …Bg4, reducing the typical “bad-bishop” problem.
- Minority Attack Potential: If the game transposes to symmetrical pawn structures, White can attack on the queenside with b4–b5, while Black seeks counterplay in the center and on the kingside.
- Endgame Appeal: Schlechter specialists (e.g., Vladimir Kramnik, Peter Leko) are attracted by the sound pawn structure and the prospect of a slightly better endgame should White over-press.
Historical Significance
Carl Schlechter introduced the idea of an early …dxc4 to neutralize White’s initiative in the Queen’s Gambit. The line fell out of fashion for decades until the 1990s, when the “Berlin Wall” ethos of ultra-solidity led elite players such as Vladimir Kramnik, Peter Leko, and Boris Gelfand to revive and refine the variation. It featured repeatedly in World Championship cycles, most notably in the 2004 Kramnik–Leko match.
Illustrative Game
The following miniature shows classical development ideas for both sides:
[[Pgn| d4|d5|c4|c6|Nf3|Nf6|Nc3|dxc4|a4|Bf5|e3|e6|Bxc4|Bb4|O-O|Nbd7|Qe2|Bg6|e4|O-O|e5|Nd5|Ne4|Qb6|h4|Bh5|Ng3|Bg6|h5|| fen|| arrows|c4c5,d7f6|squares|c4,g6 ]]- 6…e6 prepares …c5, returning the extra pawn on Black’s terms.
- White targets the light-squared bishop with h4–h5, while Black counters in the center.
Practical Tips
- After 5. a4, do not rush 5…e6?!; the bishop belongs on f5 or g4 before the path is blocked.
- In the sharp 5. e4 b5! Black defends the c4-pawn tactically; knowing the theory here is essential.
- If White delays a4, Black can often hold the pawn with …b5, forcing White to invest time in regaining it.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- Carl Schlechter drew his famous 1910 World Championship match against Emanuel Lasker; his opening repertoire, including this line, was praised for its reliability.
- Vladimir Kramnik used the Schlechter Variation as a surprise weapon versus Veselin Topalov in Linares 2006, achieving a smooth draw in only 29 moves.
- Computer engines evaluate the starting position after 4…dxc4 as nearly equal (≈0.20), reflecting its enduring reputation for solidity.