Chigorin Defense

The Chigorin Defense (ECO code D07) is a chess opening that begins with 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nc6. An unusual defense where Black develops the knight to c6 instead of supporting d5 with a pawn. Named after Mikhail Chigorin. Leads to original positions with chances for both sides.

The main line of the Chigorin Defense is 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nc6. It is classified under ECO code D07 and falls in the Closed Game family of chess openings. From this starting position, both sides have well-established plans — White typically continues with natural developing moves while Black follows the response patterns described above.

The Chigorin Defense is a reasonable choice for beginners who want exposure to closed game positions. The main line (1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nc6) is easy to remember, and the resulting middlegame patterns are well-documented. Focus on understanding the typical pawn structure rather than memorizing 15 moves of theory — engine review of your own games at chess.rodeo is more useful than theory study at the club level.

The Chigorin Defense is classified as ECO code D07. ECO (Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings) is the standard five-letter classification system developed by Chess Informant in the 1970s — A-codes cover flank openings, B-codes 1.e4 replies that aren't 1...e5, C-codes 1.e4 e5 openings, D-codes 1.d4 d5 systems, and E-codes Indian Defenses. You can browse all openings by ECO code in our free opening database.

Use chess.rodeo for full Stockfish analysis of your Chigorin Defense games — no account required, no daily cap, no paywall. Paste your PGN and get instant engine evaluation on every move, including the opening phase. For move-by-move replay without engine output, use our free PGN viewer. Both are completely free with no signup.