The Berlin Defense: An Overview for Black

Also known as the Berlin Wall, the Berlin Defense is one of the most solid openings in chess. Make use of this article to learn the opening that Kramnik used to take Kasparov's world champion title.

Part 1: 4. 0-0 Variation. 

Familiarize yourself with the Berlin Defense by taking the time to review the big picture. 


Part 2: 4. 0-0 Variation, Critical Position. 

Here we look at the strategical aspects of the critical position (after 8 ... Kxd8). 

White will win the game in one of two ways: 
1. By gaining the initiative (e.g., opening up the center by sacing a pawn) and capitalizing on it. 
2. By calculated exchanges and slowly creating a passed pawn. 

Black will win the game in only one way: 
1. By blockading and then playing against the White pawn majority. 

Part 3: 4. d3 Variation.

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