Modern Defense: Lizard Defense, Mittenberger Gambit

Chess is a complex board game requiring strategic planning from both players. In the opening of a game, white moves first and typically plays e4, aiming to control the center of the board and create a strong pawn structure. This move can also be used to develop pieces and prepare for future attacks. With black's response of g6, they are preparing to fianchetto their bishop to the long diagonal. The move Bg7 provides support for the pawn on d5 and prepares to castle kingside. The third move by white, Nc3, is a common move in many openings, as it brings out a piece and prepares for the development of the knight on f3 or g5. Black's move of d5 not only aims to control the center but also immediately challenges white's pawn on d4. This is known as the Modern Defense and the specific variation being played here is known as the Lizard Defense or the Mittenberger Gambit.

In response to white's e4, black often plays g6 to prepare for a kingside fianchetto. The move g6 helps control the dark squares and provides a secure square for the bishop on g7. This move also allows Black to gain control of the center with moves like d5, while the bishop on g7 can become an important attacking piece later in the game. Additionally, g6 prepares for castling kingside, enhancing the safety of the king by allowing it to move behind the pawns.

White's move of d4 after Black's g6 aims to control the center and create a strong pawn structure. By pushing the pawn to d4, White prepares to develop the knight to f3 or c3, adding pressure to Black's position. Additionally, d4 opens up lines for White's light-squared bishop and queen, as well as providing a safe pawn for future piece development. The move d4 also restricts Black's options and makes it more difficult for them to control the center and develop their pieces.

In the Modern Defense: Lizard Defense, Mittenberger Gambit, after the moves 1. e4 g6 2. d4, Black's Bg7 move is a natural follow-up to their previous move. By fianchettoing their bishop to g7, Black looks to pressure White's center from the diagonals. This move not only creates a strong defensive formation for Black's king but also prepares to castle kingside. Additionally, Bg7 allows Black to control important central squares and potentially set up future pawn breaks like d5 or f5. By doing so, Black can look to seize the initiative and attack White's pawn structure.

After the moves 1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7, White's move of Nc3 is a natural continuation of developing its pieces. The knight on c3 exerts pressure on Black's pawn on d5 and controls important central squares. This move also prepares for the development of the knight on f3, which can support White's central pawn structure and put pressure on Black's position. Additionally, Nc3 supports future pawn levers like c4, as well as setting up potential threats against Black's queen or bishop on g7. By moving its knight to c3, White looks to solidify its position and gain control of the board.

After the moves 1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7 3. Nc3, Black's d5 move is a central pawn break that aims to control the center and challenge White's pawn on d4. This move counters White's control of the center and prepares for the deployment of Black's pieces. By pushing their pawn to d5, Black attacks the center and gains space for their pieces to maneuver. Additionally, the move d5 prepares to release the bishop on g7 to an active diagonal, adding attacking potential to Black's position. In sum, this move allows Black to gain the initiative and seize control of the game.