Classical Variation, Berlin Variation, Pirc Variation

The Pirc Variation, 5...O-O, castles before regaining the c5-pawn and keeps the option of recapturing with the knight. Mid-20th-century theory rated that plan as a comfortable route to equality and a reason 4. Qc2 fell from favor. White's main try is 6. a3 Bxc5 7. Nf3 Nc6 8. Bg5 Nd4 9. Nxd4 Bxd4 10. e3 Qa5 11. exd4 Qxg5 12. Qd2, steering into an endgame after 12...Qxd2+ 13. Kxd2 assessed as slightly better for White. Kramnik has still defended Black against Kasparov.