Two Knights Variation is variation 6 of 6 in the Caro-Kann Defence course, a intermediate opening course for Black (ECO B11). It runs 16 moves and begins 1. e4 c6 2. Nc3 d5 3. Nf3 Bg4 4. h3 Bxf3 …. White develops both knights before d4. Black pins with ...Bg4 and gives up the bishop pair on f3, then builds a solid centre with ...e6, ...Nf6 and ...Nbd7 and plays against White's slightly loose queen and pawns. In the lesson every move is explained on a board and then drilled; it is free.
Move by move
1. e4 – White takes the centre.
1... c6 – Black prepares ...d5.
2. Nc3 – White develops and supports e4, keeping d4 in reserve.
2... d5 – Black challenges e4.
3. Nf3 – The Two Knights: White develops quickly and keeps options open.
3... Bg4 – Black pins the f3 knight, reducing its control of d4 and e5.
4. h3 – White asks the bishop to decide at once.
4... Bxf3 – Black gives up the bishop pair for a solid centre and quick development.
5. Qxf3 – White recaptures with the queen, which is active but can be a target.
5... e6 – Black builds a solid centre with pawns on c6, d5 and e6.
6. d3 – White keeps a solid pawn on e4 and opens the c1 bishop.
6... Nf6 – Black develops and adds pressure on e4.
7. Bd2 – White develops quietly and prepares O-O-O.
7... Nbd7 – Black develops and supports ...e5 or ...Ne5 ideas.
8. g4 – White starts a kingside pawn advance with g5, trying to kick the f6 knight.
8... Bb4 – Black develops the bishop with a pin on the c3 knight, increasing the pressure on e4. Black has a solid position and can castle on either side depending on White's plan.
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