Sicilian Defense (Overview)

The Sicilian Defense is one of the most (if not THE most) popular defense against white’s opening 1.e4. It is a very aggressive defense and immediately stakes claim at the center, denying white the pawn duo on e4 and d4. Eventually the c-pawn of black is usually exchanged, opening the semi-open c file for black to bring his queen or rook to and add pressure to the queen side attack. White not only has to worry about black’s defense but also the counter attack that the Sicilian Defense presents. White tends to have the advantage on the king side while black will usually look to attack on the queen side...

Why the Sicilian Defense is great for beginners?

The Sicilian defense is considered an effective opening because black's pawn on c5 does not allow white to take control of the center with its pawn on d4. It has amazing (and often fun) opening lines.

What is the point of the Sicilian Defense?

The Sicilian Defense allows Black to attack the d4 square and fight for the center without the symmetry that results from 1...e5. This generally leads to unbalanced positions and usually leaves black with a central pawn majority after trading his c-pawn for White's d-pawn!

What are some things that white can do?

1: Smith-Morra Gambit

The Smith-Morra Gambit (1. e4 c5 2. d4 cxd4 3. c3) If Black accepts the gambit by taking the pawn on c3, White will play 4. Nxc3, gaining an early initiative and a dangerous attack.

2: Alapin Variation

The Alapin Variation is reached if White plays 2. c3. While this supports the d4 advance, it takes away the c3 square, usually a good place for White's queenside knight.

3: Closed Sicilian

A second move for White is 2. Nc3, which typically ushers in the Closed Sicilian. This system allows White to keep the center closed. Typically, White plans to play 3. g3 and attack on the flanks!

White can play many more opening lines, but this is just a simple overview of the Sicilian Defense. I will post more details for Black (and White) in the future.