Dutch Defense: Stonewall Variation

About this opening

The Stonewall Variation erects a “stone wall” of pawns on d5, e6, f5 and c6, which locks the center and gives Black a solid outpost on e4. The strategy is clear: occupy e4 with a knight and attack on the kingside. The downside is the light-squared bishop, often shut in behind its own pawns. Handling this “problem” bishop is the key to a successful Stonewall.