Caro-Kann Defence - Complete Guide for Black - Part 1
GM Baadur Jobava and GM Pier Luigi Basso
We are happy to present another fascinating project by GM Baadur Jobava and GM Pier Luigi Basso - Caro-Kann Defence - Complete Guide for Black. In this 2-part series, both huge Caro-Kann experts will provide you with a high-level practical Caro-Kann repertoire for Black.
The first part of the repertoire includes all of White's major deviations from the Advance Variation. The later, as well as the extremely rare lines, will be examined in Part 2 of the series.
This course is very special because both authors are very much connected to the Caro-Kann Defence. GM Baadur Jobava has played the Caro-Kann as his main opening throughout his entire career. GM Basso got a deep understanding of this opening while working with GM Dreev who is one of the best Caro-Kann experts in the world.
The course consists of 16 theoretical chapters, 6 extensively annotated model games, 16 interactive test positions, a Memory Booster, and a Video Version (6h and 18min).
Preview by GM Pier Luigi Basso
I am very excited to present our first database on the Caro-Kann! While there are already many publications on this topic, we aim to offer a fresh approach to this opening. Baadur has played the Caro-Kann as his main opening repertoire throughout his life. Although I have played it occasionally, I was fortunate to study under Russian Grandmaster Alexei Dreev from 2015 to 2016. Dreev is one of the best Caro-Kann players of all time. He embodies the typical Russian school, possessing deep theoretical knowledge and a thorough understanding of the plans. Baadur, on the other hand, brings a creative flair to his games, and his incredible talent allows us to learn a great deal from his experience with this opening. I aim to balance these two perspectives on the Caro-Kann and offer you an interesting, creative, yet solid opening repertoire. We will cover 16 theoretical chapters and include many model games to enhance your understanding of the positions.
Now, I will briefly present the main directions covered in the database.
Let's start with the Two Knights Variation arising after 2.Nf3 d5 3.Nc3
In this case, our suggestion is 3...Bg4
From Chapter 8 to Chapter 12, we will delve into this position in great detail. I'm truly excited to share all the knowledge I've gained while preparing for this course. My aim is to provide you with world-class opening theory, but more importantly, to explain the ideas behind each move order and why we choose one move over another from Black's perspective. We'll also explore the history of these positions, so by the end of these lessons, you'll be well-versed experts. Our main reference is the strong GM Alexey Dreev, who has the most extensive experience in these positions. I had the fortune to work with him from 2015 to 2016, and he shared many fascinating insights about the resulting positions. Modern engines are much stronger, so we might not find all the best move orders from a theoretical standpoint in his games. However, there is still much to learn about these positions' spirit. Studying this chapter will be valuable for building your repertoire and enhancing strategic understanding for players at all levels.
Against the trendy 3.d3, I suggest 3...Qc7
A very interesting line. Black aims for the dxe4-dxe4-e5 symmetrical structure. The practical advantages of this line are: - Black doesn't need to play the very risk-free for White endgame after 3...dxe4 - Black doesn't need to run some strategic risk of the 3...g6 line. This line is examined in Chapter 7.
The Fantasy Variation arising after 2.d4 d5 3.f3 is covered in Chapter 1. We will explore the so-called "Fantasy variation". We will take inspiration from the game Ivanchuk-Jobava that will be analyzed in the model games section.
The Panov attack arising after 2.d4 d5 3.exd5 cxd5 4.c4 is another major option that White has against the Caro-Kann Defence.
Panov systems will be analyzed in Chapters 4-5-6. Baadur is showcasing his expertise by playing it from the White side, making his insights invaluable for those approaching it from the Black side. I'm certain you'll find his suggestions particularly insightful for your own repertoire.
The so-called Exchange Variation is characterized by 4.Bd3.
In Chapter 2, we'll explore a hybrid version of the exchange variation (with 2.Nf3), while in Chapter 3, we'll address a line that's proven to be a headache for many black players. We'll introduce an exquisite variation that's straightforward to play, sparing Black from unnecessary suffering and the burden of extensive theoretical knowledge required in the main lines.
The most important tabiya of this course is being reached after 3...dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5
We have chosen to go for the classical system. Nowadays, 4...Nf6 is more popular, but in our opinion, it is just a matter of fashion because 4...Bf5 stands very well, and the arising positions are much easier to play from the Black's side. Both me and Baadur have vast experience in this line, so we'll be happy to share with you all our knowledge and a lot of theoretical novelties so that you will be able to play even for the full point!