Pirc Defense: Classical Variation

1.e4 d6 2.d4 Nf6 3.Nc3 g6 4.Nf3

ECO B08

The Pirc Defense: Classical Variation is a chess opening line in the Pirc Defense complex, reached after 1.e4 d6 2.d4 Nf6 3.Nc3 g6 4.Nf3.

It is catalogued under code B08 in the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings (ECO).

The defining move Nf3 is chosen by White on move 4.

2 named continuations branch from this position, including the Quiet System and the Schlechter Variation.

Named variations

• Pirc Defense: Classical Variation, Quiet System — ECO B08
• Pirc Defense: Classical Variation, Schlechter Variation — ECO B08

Study this line with a grandmaster

This position is covered in the Pirc 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.