Vienna: Smyslov, 3...d5

Vienna: Smyslov, 3…d5

Definition

The line “Vienna: Smyslov, 3…d5” refers to a specific variation of the Vienna Game that arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 d5. It is named after former World Champion Vasily Smyslov, who explored the counter-attacking idea …d5 on move three. In ECO it is catalogued as C26.

Typical Move Order & Starting Position

The critical starting diagram can be reached by the following sequence:

Material is still equal, both sides have one minor piece developed, and the central tension is at its peak with pawns on e4 and d5 confronting each other.

Strategic Ideas

• For Black (the Smyslov concept):
  • The immediate thrust …d5 challenges White’s grip on the center and aims to open lines before White can castle kingside via Bg2 and 0-0.
  • If White captures on d5 (4. exd5), Black recaptures with the knight (4…Nxd5), obtaining active piece play and freeing the queen’s bishop.
  • Black often follows up with …Nc6, …Be6 or …Bc5, exerting pressure on the e4-pawn and the a7–g1 diagonal.
• For White:
  • White’s fianchetto setup (g3, Bg2) seeks long-term pressure on the light squares, especially the d5 and e4 outposts.
  • White can choose between the sharp 4. exd5 or the quieter 4. Bg2, allowing Black to trade in the center but maintaining a space advantage.
  • After castling, central pawn breaks with d4 or f4 are common plans.

Theoretical Status

Modern engines evaluate the position after 3…d5 as roughly equal (≈ 0.00), provided both sides play accurately. Theory regards it as a sound, dynamic reply for Black, circumventing many of White’s move-order tricks in standard Vienna lines.

Historical & Notable Games

• Smyslov – Kotov, USSR Ch 1949: Smyslov unveiled the fianchetto plan with g3, but Kotov’s 3…d5 secured equality; the game was drawn after 36 moves.
• Short – Speelman, London 1989: White tried an early f4 after 3…d5; Speelman’s energetic …Bb4+ and …dxe4 yielded a quick queenside initiative and eventual victory.

Illustrative Continuation

An aggressive line often quoted in manuals:

After the dust settles, material is equal and both sides possess manageable imbalances: White enjoys the bishop pair; Black has a robust knight on b6 and easy …c6, …Be6 development.

Common Transpositions & Move-Order Tricks

• If White delays g3 and plays 3. f4 (Vienna Gambit), the game diverges completely; 3…d5 in that case leads to the Falkbeer-style counter gambit.
• Some positions may transpose to the King’s Indian Attack versus 1…e5 after 4. Bg2 d4 5. Nce2, but with the added nuance of the knight already on f6.

Interesting Facts & Anecdotes

• Smyslov’s deep affinity for harmonious piece placement—especially the fianchettoed bishop—ironically inspired a variation where Black immediately tries to crack that very center!
• The line is sometimes called the “Smyslov Counter-gambit,” even though Black sacrifices no material—highlighting its spirit rather than its substance.
• In online blitz, 3…d5 scores noticeably above 50 % for Black in large databases, showing its practical punch against unprepared opponents.

When to Choose This Line

Opt for 3…d5 if you enjoy immediate central confrontation and are willing to learn a handful of critical branches rather than aim for slower, maneuvering play. It is particularly effective against players who rely on set-up systems (g3, Bg2, Nge2) and want to avoid early theoretical battles.