French Defense: Tarrasch Variation
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2
In the Tarrasch variation of the French defense - named after German grandmaster Siegbert Tarrasch - White defends the e4 pawn by 3.Nd2. This looks less active, but avoids the pin 3...Bb4 (after 3.Nc3) and maintains the possibility of supporting d4 by playing c2-c3.
Pros:
- Solid
- Tries to maintain the grip
- Less counterplay for Black
Cons:
- Slower development
- Black can counterattack in the center with 3...c5
- Less attacking chances than after some alternatives
Famous Practitioners: Michael Adams