Karpov Variation, Modern Variation, Kasparov Attack

Instead of the Modern Variation's 5. Ng5, White develops with 5. Nf3. After 5...Ngf6, White meets the challenge to the e4-knight with 6. Ng3, the Kasparov Attack. The exchange on f6 that Black's setup is built to invite never happens, so Black keeps a cramped position with more pieces on the board. The knight on g3 covers e4 and f5, so ...Bf5 is not available, and Black has to find another route for the light-squared bishop. White keeps the d4-pawn and a free hand in the center, with the d- and e-files half-open.

Black's most common reply by far is 6...e6, a French-like setup that accepts a closed-in bishop on c8 in return for a solid position. The engine's other suggestions, ...c5 and ...a6, look for queenside activity. 6...Nb6 frees the d7-square for the bishop, and in practice it scores somewhat better for White. 6...g6 prepares a kingside fianchetto. Engines rate the position as close to balanced, and results in online play are nearly even.