Pirc Connection

The Pirc Connection arises when Black answers 2. Nc3 in the Nimzowitsch Defense with 2...g6, preparing to fianchetto the dark-squared bishop rather than steering toward the Vienna Game with 2...e5 or the French Connection with 2...e6. The bishop on g7 adds to the c6-knight's pressure on d4. White most often develops with 3. Nf3, while 3. d4 and 3. Bc4 are the main alternatives. The engine gives White a slight edge, and White scores somewhat better in practice.