Sidestep

As played by Nigel Short against Garry Kasparov - 1.d4 d6 2.Nf3 Bg4 is a relatively new system with some high-class adherents. Completely sound, it leads to dynamic and unbalanced middlegames. The defense has the considerable merit of sidestepping standard theory, and is a favorite of Anand and Speelman. GM James Plaskett analyses Black's best plans against all possible White set-ups.

1.d4 d6 2.Nf3 Bg4!

Part 1: 3.e4 Nf6 4.Nc3

Part 2: 3.e4 Nf6 4.Nc3 e6 5.h3 Bh5 6.Qe2

Part 3: 3.e4 Nf6 4.Nbd2

Part 4: 3.c4 Bxf3 4.gxf3

Part 5: 3.c4 Bxf3 4.exf3

Part 6: 3.c4 Nd7 4.e4

Part 7: 3.c4 Nd7 4.e3

Part 8: 3.c4 Nd7 4.Qb3

Part 9: 3.g3/3.Nbd2/3.h3