FENrnbqkbnr/pp2pppp/2pp4/8/3PP3/8/PPP2PPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq -
Pirc Defense: what to play after d6?
Best move
c4+0.80
By playing c4, you are establishing a "Maroczy Bind" structure, exerting massive pressure on the d5 square. This move clamps down on the center and prevents Black from easily…
- Games played
- 7.47M
- To move
- White
- Evaluation
- +0.80
- Depth
- 25
Why c4 is the best move
c4! — Excellent Choice!
✅ One of 3 top moves — you found a winning strategy!
Why this move is excellent:
By playing c4, you are establishing a "Maroczy Bind" structure, exerting massive pressure on the d5 square. This move clamps down on the center and prevents Black from easily breaking open the position with their pawns.
Multiple Valid Strategies
| Move | Eval | Style / Strategic Idea |
|---|---|---|
| c4 | +0.80 | Positional Grip: Dominates the center and restricts Black's counterplay. |
| Nc3 | +0.70 | Development: A flexible move that prepares to defend e4 and develops a piece. |
| Nf3 | +0.67 | Classical: The most common human choice, preparing kingside castling. |
Different paths, same destination: While most players naturally gravitate toward Nf3 to develop their pieces, your choice of c4 is the engine's favorite. It is a more sophisticated, positional approach that prioritizes long-term space over immediate development. Only 10% of humans find this move, making your find quite impressive!
Your Continuation
After c4:
e5 Nf3 exd4 Nxd4 Nf6
What Made This Move Good
You correctly saw: That the c4 pawn works perfectly with the e4 pawn to create a wall that Black struggles to climb. You aren't just developing; you are dictating the terms of the battle by controlling the d5 and b5 squares.
📚 Takeaway: In positions with multiple good moves, trust your style! Whether you prefer the positional squeeze of c4 or the rapid development of Nc3, both lead to a clear advantage for White.
What else gets played here
Move choices from 7.47M games in the opening book, with the engine's evaluation of each.
| Move | Evaluation | Played | Games | White score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| c4Engine pick | +0.80 | 0 | 0% | |
| Nc3 | +0.70 | 0 | 0% | |
| Nf3 | +0.67 | 0 | 0% | |
| Bd3 | +0.57 | 0 | 0% | |
| a4 | +0.53 | 0 | 0% |
The line
More positions in the Pirc Defense
All Pirc Defense positions →Frequently asked questions
What is the best move for White in the Pirc Defense?
c4 (+0.80). By playing c4, you are establishing a "Maroczy Bind" structure, exerting massive pressure on the d5 square. This move clamps down on the center and prevents Black from easily…
Why is c4 the best move here?
By playing c4, you are establishing a "Maroczy Bind" structure, exerting massive pressure on the d5 square. This move clamps down on the center and prevents Black from easily breaking open the position with their pawns.
How often does this position occur?
This position has been reached 7.47M times in the opening book.