Trompowsky: 2...c5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.d5 Qb6 5.Qc1 f5 6.c4

Trompowsky: 2...c5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.d5 Qb6 5.Qc1 f5 6.c4

Definition

This variation is a sharp branch of the Trompowsky Attack that begins with the moves 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 and continues 2...c5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.d5 Qb6 5.Qc1 f5 6.c4. After White’s bishop exchange on f6, Black voluntarily accepts doubled f-pawns and an uncastled king in return for central space and long-term attacking prospects. The resulting pawn structure resembles a reversed Benoni with colors switched: Black seeks dynamic counter-play while White tries to exploit structural weaknesses and the lead in development.

Typical Move Order

The critical sequence is:

• 1.d4 Nf6
• 2.Bg5 c5 – known as the Vaganian Counter-Gambit in the Trompowsky.
• 3.Bxf6 gxf6 – Black accepts doubled pawns and half-opens the g-file.
• 4.d5 – White grabs space and blocks the c5-pawn.
• 4…Qb6 – targeting d4 and b2 and preparing …f5.
• 5.Qc1 – simultaneously defending b2/d4 and eyeing h6.
• 5…f5 – staking more space, freeing the dark-squared bishop, and shielding the queen.
• 6.c4 – bolstering d5 and fixing the structure.

Strategic Themes

Key ideas for each side:

• White
  • Exploit the fractured Black pawn structure (e6, f7-f6-f5) by attacking down the e- and g-files after timely e2–e3, Bd3, Qc2, and Nf3.
  • Maintain the strong d5-outpost to restrict Black’s minor pieces.
  • Aim for breaks such as b2-b4 or e2-e4 to open lines against the king.
• Black
  • Leverage the pawn mass on f5/f6/e7 to build a central-kingside initiative, sometimes advancing …f4 to cramp White.
  • Utilize the half-open g-file (…Rg8) and queen on b6 to generate threats against b2, g2, and d4.
  • Seek piece activity over structural soundness; timely breaks with …e6 or …e5 can free Black’s position.

Historical & Theoretical Significance

The line was popularized in the 1970s–80s by Armenian grandmaster Rafael Vaganian, whose enterprising style inspired the early …c5 counter. Although never a mainline at elite level, it continues to appear as a surprise weapon because it steers play away from heavily analyzed Queen’s Gambit and Indian-defense structures. Modern engines confirm that the position is objectively balanced but extremely unbalanced—perfect for players who relish complicated middlegames.

Illustrative Games

1. Rafael Vaganian – Jonathan Speelman, Tilburg 1981
   Vaganian showed the attacking potential of Black’s position, sacrificing a pawn with …f5-f4 and seizing the initiative down the g-file. Though White eventually held a draw, the game remains a benchmark for Black’s dynamic chances.

2. Irina Krush – Hikaru Nakamura, US Championship 2004
   An instructive modern example where White (Krush) used the long-term weakness of the f- and e-pawns to transition into a winning rook ending.

Example Position

After 6.c4 the basic tabiya arises:

Interesting Facts

• The early …gxf6 looks ugly, but Black scores respectably in databases— partly because many White players are unfamiliar with the arising pawn structures.
• Grandmaster David Smerdon devotes an entire chapter to this line in his book “The Complete Trompowsky,” calling it “the wild child” of the opening.
• Because the queens often stay on the board and kings remain in the center, both sides must constantly calculate tactical shots—making this variation a favorite in rapid and blitz play.