Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation, Smyslov Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Nd7 5.Bc4 Ngf6 6.Ng5 e6 7.Qe2 Nb6

ECO B17

The Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation, Smyslov Variation is a chess opening line in the Caro-Kann Defense complex, reached after 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Nd7 5.Bc4 Ngf6 6.Ng5 e6 7.Qe2 Nb6.

It is catalogued under code B17 in the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings (ECO).

The defining move Nb6 is chosen by Black on move 7.

One named continuation branches from this position: the Main Line.

Named variations

• Caro-Kann Defense: Karpov Variation, Smyslov Variation, Main Line — ECO B17

Study this line with a grandmaster

This position is covered in the Caro-Kann Defense course: a GM-authored repertoire you study move by move, then practice against a human-like AI opponent.

Every chess term used here is defined in the chess terms glossary. Browse all opening courses or the full ECO code index.