Spielmann Variation

The Spielmann Variation is an unusual sixth move in the Classical Sicilian. White retreats the d4-knight to e2 instead of developing a bishop with 6. Bg5 or 6. Bc4. The retreat avoids exchanges on c6 but spends a tempo and eases pressure on the d-file, leaving Black free to choose a setup. The most common reply is 6...g6, a Dragon-style fianchetto, followed by 6...e5. Black scores well in the few games that reach it, and the engine rates the position as roughly balanced.