Caro-Kann Defence

In that first game, b5 instead of Bd7 might have been also okay, to fianchetto the bishop. However, Bd6 is definetly better than Be7.

X-PLAYER-J-X: how do you prefer to handle 3. f3?

That is called the Caro-Kann Fantasy variation. I will be adding that move order to my intro little later. I have had some nice games against that line with the black piece's.

I believe theory shows the best way for black to proceed is few moves e6, dxe4, and g6 . My personal favorite is the move Qb6 I believe this is the best continuation out of the other lines that have been played.

Carlo, what is white's best response after 3... Qb6? I'm trying to pick up 3. f3 for my repetoir for white and I'm trying to work out all the kinks.

The best response I believe is 3.Nc3 with the idea of trying to get rid of the dark bishop. It will end up being a trade dark bishop for the knight.

The games usually end up like this.

This is how the game usually goes and its very complex. I have found that many players who play this line with white will spend the rest of the game doing a queen trade lol. Which I believe is considered the best for them. Its razor edge position though.

Other possible ways black can play is instead of taking the knight playing Qd4+ trying to force a trade of queens while keeping the dark bishop.

Blinsk, I'm happy to help you build your repertoire.

First of all, consider taking a look at Nepomniatchi's games. He plays the Fantasy variation (3. f3) against the Caro and he's one of the best players to do that (he's over 2700). I've got to go now but when I'll be back I'll do some research and inform you of my results.

Later!

By the way, check out this game I played yesterday.

I believe the Caro-Kann, Fantasy variation can be very strong if the black sided players do not know what they are doing.

However, I will say I believe 3...Qb6 is the best continuation for black. It has been proving to be a challenge. Their are some very famous games of this. 1 game I am reminded of is a game Jobava played against Ivanchuk. He ended up losing the game. Ivanchuk was playing the white pieces and won. It was actually very interesting and funny game. KingsCrusher did a youtube video of it and couldn't stop laughin during his commentary. It looked as if to 1300 were playing each other and yet they both are well over 2600+ so its something you would not see every day.

Even though Jobava did not win I still think 3...Qb6 is the best. I also believe Jobava got a little to ambitious with some of his move's.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=906tAksui10

x_PLAYER_J_X the first ame is the great

carro kann loses by force

lol k

Thank You

X_PLAYER_J_X, I also am a Caro-Kann player and enjoy this section. Keep up the good work.

Jason

Thank you yeah I like playing the Caro-Kann and Sicilian against 1.e4 alot. Its very nice