French Chess Move

by Stephen Edwards
(Sydney, Australia)

Q. I am trying to improve my defensive play in chess. People recommend many different strategies. I have often heard of a move called the French Defense. What is the French Defense chess move?

A. The French Defense is a defensive system for Black. It starts out with 1.e4 e6 and 2.d4 d5 often follows. Black can use this system if he does not want to enter an open game. The French Defense provides him with solidity and the chance to develop relatively easily. He will not find himself under much pressure. The flip side is that the defense is somewhat passive and while he can probably achieve equality with good play, there are not much prospects of claiming an advantage in the opening. He will have to outplay White later in the game in order to get on top. Here you can find a more comprehensive discussion on the French Defense.