3.exd5

3.exd5

Now White makes an important decision. The most popular moves after 2...d5 are 3.Nc3 and 3.Nd2, developing a minor piece and defending the attacked e-Pawn. Somewhat less popular, but often favored by strategically minded players, is 3.e5, setting up a blockade of Black's center and attempting to shut in the light squared Bishop permanently.

Against 3.Nc3, Korchnoi's preferred move was 3...Bb4, although he occasionally used 3...Nf6. Against 3.Nd2, he preferred 3...c5, again with an occasional 3...Nf6, to keep his opponents guessing.

The move played, 3.exd5, is known as the Exchange Variation. It has a drawish reputation, confirmed by Korchnoi in his notes to the game: 'In making this move, White as it were announces that he is thinking only of a draw. The Exchange Variation, gives the Pawn structure a symmetrical character.' The most important aspect of the Pawn exchange is that it frees Black's problem piece, the light squared Bishop, allowing it to participate immediately in the action.

The Exchange Variation is used most frequently by players facing a stronger opponent, in situations where a draw is an acceptable result. In the current game, White was an IM facing a strong GM. A draw would have been more than acceptable.

Next move: 3...exd5