Closed, Fianchetto Variation

With 3. g3 White commits to the fianchetto that defines the traditional Closed Sicilian. The usual plan is Bg2, d3, Nge2 and O-O, keeping the center closed and preparing play on the kingside. An early f4 is also possible, and it gives positions that resemble the Grand Prix Attack, but with the bishop on g2 rather than b5 or c4. Black's usual task is to meet this with a timely break in the center.

The most common reply, 3...g6, mirrors White's setup. After 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3 d6 it reaches the main lines, where the choice between 6. Be3 and 6. f4 shapes the middlegame. 3...e6, chosen in about a fifth of games, and 3...d6 avoid the symmetrical structure and leave Black more flexibility in the center. The engine rates the position as balanced and prefers g6, Nf6 and d6. White scores slightly better in the Lichess database. As with the closed setups generally, the theory is not especially deep.