Pirc Defense: the Classical System — Chess Library

Black gives White the center and attacks it from the flank. A hypermodern setup that stays flexible for as long as possible.

Lesson

White to move. Main line: 1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nf6 3. Nc3 g6 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Be2 O-O 6. O-O Nc6

Pirc Defense: Classical Variation, Quiet System, Chigorin Line (B08). The line runs 1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nf6 3. Nc3 g6 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Be2 O-O 6. O-O Nc6 — the move order matters, and this is the one the theory follows.

Black’s pieces aim at e4 and d4 without occupying those squares with pawns. White uses the space to develop naturally, but must be ready for ...e5 or ...c5.

The quiet Be2 setup prioritizes castling over an immediate attack. Once both kings are safe, the choice of central pawn break — and the timing of it — defines the middlegame.