Dutch: 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Nc3 d5

Before the first move

The Dutch Defense is an ambitious, asymmetrical response where Black stakes a claim on the e4-square from move one. In this line, White adopts a solid fianchetto setup to neutralize Black's kingside pressure, while Black builds a sturdy central wall known as the Stonewall formation to lock down the center.

1. d4White · your move

Move your pawn to d4. This classic opening move claims space in the center and opens lines for your queen and dark-squared bishop. It is the foundation for many positional battles where you aim for long-term control.

1... f5Black

Black replies with f5, the Dutch Defense. It is a provocative choice compared to the solid d5 or the flexible Nf6. By moving the f-pawn, Black gains space but slightly weakens their king's safety, setting the stage for a sharp struggle.

Other paths here: Na6 (Australian Defense) · g5 (Borg Defense: Borg Gambit) · b6 (English Defense) · e5 (Englund Gambit)

2. c4White · your move

Advance your c-pawn to c4. You are building a powerful pawn duo in the center that restricts Black's development. This move also prepares to bring your knight to c3, putting even more pressure on the central squares.

Other paths here: Qd3 (Dutch Defense: Alapin Variation) · Bg5 (Dutch Defense: Hopton Attack) · h3 (Dutch Defense: Korchnoi Attack) · g4 (Dutch Defense: Krejcik Gambit)

2... Nf6Black

Black develops with Nf6, reinforcing their control over the center. Instead of this, Black sometimes plays e6 to enter the Classical Variation or g6 to prepare the Leningrad Dutch, which is characterized by a kingside fianchetto.

Other paths here: e6 (Dutch Defense: Classical Variation) · d6 (Dutch: 2.c4 d6) · g6 (Dutch: 2.c4 g6)

3. g3White · your move

Push your pawn to g3. You are preparing to fianchetto your bishop to g2, where it will exert tremendous pressure along the long h1-a8 diagonal. This is the most solid way to face the Dutch and blunts Black's attacking hopes.

Other paths here: Nf3 (Dutch: 2.c4 Nf6) · Nc3 (Dutch Defense: Queen's Knight Variation)

3... e6Black

Black plays e6, a flexible move that prepares for the Stonewall or Classical structures. If Black wanted a more dynamic, modern setup, they might have chosen g6 for the Leningrad system, which focuses on piece activity over a fixed pawn center.

Other paths here: g6 (Dutch Defense: Leningrad Variation) · d6 (Dutch: 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 d6)

4. Nc3White · your move

Bring your knight to c3. This square is the most active home for the knight, where it pressures d5 and e4. You are completing your development and preparing to contest Black's upcoming central expansion.

Other paths here: Bg2 (Dutch Defense: Classical Variation) · Nf3 (Dutch: 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Nf3)

4... d5Black

Black plays d5, solidifying the Stonewall structure. This move clamps down on e4 but leaves a permanent hole on e5. Alternatively, Black could have played Bb4 to pin the knight and maintain more flexibility in their pawn structure.

Where you stand

The position is now a classic Stonewall Dutch. White will focus on the e5-square and queenside expansion, while Black will look to maneuver the knight to e4 and eventually launch a kingside attack. White's bishop on g2 is a key long-term asset, while Black must find a way to activate the 'bad' light-squared bishop on c8.

• f1-g2 Fianchetto the bishop to control the diagonal
• g1-e5 Occupy the central hole on e5
• f6-e4 Anchor the knight on e4
• c8-h5 Reroute the light bishop to the kingside