French Defense: Steinitz Variation, Gledhill Attack

In the French Defense: Steinitz Variation, Gledhill Attack, White's move 1.e4 sets the stage for a sharp tactical battle. By advancing the pawn two squares, White aims to control the center and gain space. This move also allows the queen's pawn to be developed on the next turn. With the potential for a pawn break in the center looming, Black must respond carefully to prevent White from gaining too much control.

Black's move e6 is a typical response to White's e4, creating an immediate pawn chain. This move anticipates a potential d4 push from White, making it difficult for them to maintain a strong pawn center. Additionally, the pawn on e6 gives Black more control over the d5 square and prepares for the development of the bishop to d6. By playing e6, Black aims to establish a solid position and limit White's options in the opening.

White's move d4 is a natural follow-up to e4, aiming to control the center and put pressure on Black's position. This move establishes a pawn chain that can be difficult for Black to break. By controlling the d5 square, White is also limiting Black's potential counterplay and making it harder for them to develop their pieces to active squares. In the French Defense, playing d4 is often a key strategic concept for White to gain a strong opening position.

In the French Defense: Steinitz Variation, Gledhill Attack, Black's move d5 is a central break that aims to challenge White's control over the center. By pushing the pawn forward, Black gains more space and opens lines for the development of their pieces. This move also attacks White's pawn on d4, forcing them to make a decision on how to react. Playing d5 is a key concept in the French Defense to liberate Black's position and equalize the game.

White's move Nc3 in response to Black's d5 is a typical developing move that aims to put pressure on Black's center. By attacking the pawn on d5, White is challenging Black to either defend or exchange it. This move also prepares for the potential fork on e5 with the knight. The knight on c3 also controls the important d5 square, limiting Black's potential counterplay. Playing Nc3 is a key strategic concept in many variations of the French Defense.

In response to White's Nc3, Black plays Nf6 to develop a piece and put pressure on White's pawn on e4. This move also prepares for castling kingside and controls the crucial e5 square, limiting White's potential space and control over the center. The knight on f6 also protects the pawn on d5, which can be important if White decides to exchange on c6. This move is a typical, solid developing move in many variations of the French Defense and is a key part of Black's opening strategy.

In the French Defense: Steinitz Variation, Gledhill Attack, White's move e5 is a typical pawn break that aims to open up lines and gain space in the center. This move also aims to gain control of the d5 square, forcing Black to make a decision on how to defend their position. The pawn on e5 also opens lines for White's pieces, making it easier to develop and potentially target Black's king. This move is a critical part of White's strategy to gain an opening advantage and put pressure on Black's position.

After White's move e5, Black's move Nfd7 aims to reroute the knight to either c5 or e6, controlling the important d5 square. This move also helps to release the pressure on the f6 knight, preparing for the kingside castle. By developing the knight, Black is also keeping up with their development and preparing to attack White's center in the future. This move is a key tactical decision in the French Defense and is aimed at equalizing the position for Black.

White's move Qg4 is a sharp attacking move that aims to put pressure on Black's kingside. This move attacks the pawn on f7 and threatens checkmate on g7 with the bishop and queen. Additionally, the queen on g4 also puts pressure on the knight on d7, which is responsible for controlling the square f6. If Black is not careful, they can quickly find themselves in a very uncomfortable position. The move Qg4 is a typical attacking move in the French Defense and highlights White's aggressive intentions in this opening.