Caro-Kann Defense: what to play after d6?

In this position arising from the Caro-Kann Defense, White's most established continuation is d4, claiming the center directly with a +0.60 engine evaluation. Alternatively, the engine's highest-rated option is c4 at an evaluation of +0.78, taking space on the queenside and setting up a broad pawn presence. Both moves secure a comfortable initiative against Black's flexible setup.

The Traditional Approach with d4

By far the most common choice is d4, selected in 75.5% of recorded games (3.13M recorded) with a 49.3% score for White. This move occupies d4 immediately, establishing the classical central pawn duo alongside the pawn on e4. In the illustrative variation d4 Nf6 Nc3 g6 h3 Bg7, Black transitions into a King's Indian or Pirc structure, while White completes development and controls critical central squares.

Space with c4 and the Natural Nc3

Although played in only 1.1% of games (44K recorded) with White scoring 48.1%, c4 receives the top engine evaluation of +0.78. It takes space on the queenside, leading to lines such as c4 e5 d4 Bg4 Nc3 Nd7. Meanwhile, Nc3 is the second most common choice, occurring in 22.2% of games (919K recorded) with an even 50.0% score and an evaluation of +0.58. The line Nc3 e5 d4 Qc7 Bc4 Nf6 demonstrates White's steady piece development.

Minor Prophylactic Tries

White also tests slower prophylactic moves such as h3, chosen in 1.2% of games (52K recorded) with a 51.1% score and a +0.48 evaluation, exemplified by h3 Nf6 Nc3 b5 a3 Nbd7. Finally, a3 evaluates at +0.46, featured in the illustrative sequence a3 Nf6 Nc3 Qa5 h3 e5. While playable, these quieter options concede early central momentum compared to the direct thrusts.