Chess Opening Theory/1. d4/1...Nf6/2. c4/2...g6/3. f3

3. f3 is an Anti-Grünfeld move that was popularized by Alekhine.

It prepares e4 with a pawn to secure a big center. However, it weakens White's kingside and allows Black a larger lead in development. White usually castles queenside and starts a pawn storm on the kingside, similar to the Sämisch variation.

Black can choose to go into the mainline with 3...d5, playing in more of a Grünfeld fashion. Black is however free to go for one of the transpositional moves:

• 3...c5 transposes into a variation of the Benoni defence where White has already played f3, eliminating some of White's usual options.
• 3...Bg7 and 3...d6 transpose into the Sämisch variation of the King's Indian.

Therefore, it is important for White to be comfortable in these openings as well if they want to avoid the Grünfeld with this move.

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. f3