Classical Variation, Fianchetto Variation

With 6. g3 White prepares Bg2, a fianchetto that reinforces e4 and works along the long diagonal. It replaces the sharper bishop moves that define the main Classical Sicilian branches. The most frequent reply is 6...g6, answering with a Dragon-style fianchetto of Black's own, and 6...e5 and 6...e6 are the main alternatives. Black has scored poorly after 6...e6. The line is uncommon, the engine rates it as balanced, and Black has scored slightly better in online games.