Sicilian Defense, Nf6BETA

An interesting alternative from black, developing the knight to the natural f6 square immediately. By counterattacking the e4 pawn, black does not afford white time for any other move besides Nc3, transposing to the main line Open Sicilian.

The Sicilian is a counterattacking game. By keeping the game asymmetrical, black wants imbalances in the position, which can eventually lead to a double-edged position with winning chances on both sides.

In the Open Sicilian, white has a lead in development and a stronger center. In return, black has two pawns in the center, and can eventually expand to take over the center. White often plays for a kingside attack, while black counter attacks against the queenside or after white over-extends during their kingside assault.