Opening Overview
Philidor Defense
44 linesAbout This Opening
Philidor Defense is a solid opening that emphasizes structure, flexibility, and reliable development.
These structures usually reward accurate development, good piece coordination, and patience before committing to pawn breaks.
The practical edge often comes from knowing the main pawn structures and where each side wants counterplay, rather than memorizing long forcing lines.
Key ideas
- Typical theme: sound structure and flexible plans.
- Most plans revolve around piece activity and pawn breaks at the right moment.
- Best for players who want reliable positions and clear structure.
- Learn the standard middlegame plans, not just the first moves.
Choose a variation
Philidor Defense: Nimzowitsch, Locock Variation
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 Nf6 4. Ng5
Philidor Defense: Paulsen Attack
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 exd4 4. Nxd4 d5 5. exd5
Philidor Defense: Philidor Countergambit
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 f5
Philidor Defense: Philidor Countergambit, Berger Variation
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 f5 4. dxe5 fxe4 5. Ng5 d5 6. e6 Bc5 7. Nc3
Philidor Defense: Philidor Countergambit, Zukertort Variation
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 f5 4. Nc3
Philidor Defense: Philidor Countergambit, del Rio Attack
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 f5 4. dxe5 fxe4 5. Ng5 d5 6. e6
Philidor Defense: Philidor Gambit
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 Bd7
Philidor Defense: Steinitz Variation
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6 3. Bc4 Be7 4. c3