DRAGON VARIATION Meaning and
Definition
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The Dragon Variation is a term used in chess to describe one of the most aggressive and sharp lines within the Sicilian Defense. In chess, the Sicilian Defense is a popular opening move sequence characterized by black playing the move ...c5 in response to white's 1.e4. The Dragon Variation is a specific sub-variation of the Sicilian Defense that arises after the moves 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 g6.
The Dragon Variation gets its name from the characteristic pawn structure that resembles a dragon's wings when black's pawns are placed on d6, e7, and g6. It is known for its highly tactical and aggressive nature, as both sides engage in swift and explosive attacks on opposite wings of the board.
After the initial set-up, the Dragon Variation often proceeds with moves like Nc6, Qd7, and often castling kingside, preparing for an aggressive pawn storm against white's king. White, on the other hand, aims to launch its own counterattack on the queenside, typically playing moves like Be3, Qd2, followed by a pawn advance on the b or a-file.
The Dragon Variation requires precise calculation, deep strategic understanding, and a willingness to take risks. It has been played by many top players and has contributed to numerous dynamic and thrilling games in chess history. While being a sharp and combative opening, the Dragon Variation is known for leading to rich and complex middlegame positions, providing both players with great opportunities for creative and imaginative play.
Common Misspellings for DRAGON VARIATION
- sragon variation
- xragon variation
- cragon variation
- fragon variation
- rragon variation
- eragon variation
- deagon variation
- ddagon variation
- dfagon variation
- dtagon variation
- d5agon variation
- d4agon variation
- drzgon variation
- drsgon variation
- drwgon variation
- drqgon variation
- drafon variation
- dravon variation
- drabon variation
- drahon variation
Etymology of DRAGON VARIATION
The term "Dragon variation" is derived from the dragon-like pawn structure that arises in certain chess openings. Specifically, it is associated with the Sicilian Defence, a popular opening in chess where Black responds to White's 1.e4 with 1...c5. Within the Sicilian Defence, the Dragon variation occurs when Black plays the move 9...g6, creating a pawn structure with pawns on c5, d6, e7, and g6 that resembles the shape of a dragon. The name "Dragon variation" was likely given to this specific line of the Sicilian Defence due to the imaginative association with the mythical creature known as the dragon.
