Berlin Defense, Closed Wolf Variation

Reached via the Improved Steinitz setup 4...d6, the line sees Black meet White's central pressure with 6...exd4, giving up the e5 strongpoint instead of holding it. The pawn gain is only temporary. 7. Nxd4 is the usual reply by a wide margin and leads to a compact Steinitz-style structure built around d6. 7. Bxc6 is an occasional alternative, while 7. Nd5 is rare and scores badly for White. The engine gives White a slight edge.