Sicilian Defense: Open, Classical, Richter-Rauzer Variation
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 Nc6 6.Bg5
In the Classical Sicilian, Black takes control of e5 with 2...d6 and develops both knights, keeping the possibilities of ...g6 or ...e5, depending on what White does. The Richter-Rauzer is a way for White to meet the Classical Sicilian, in which White makes both ...g6 and ...e5 less desirable.
Pros:
- Avoids transposing to a Dragon or allowing ...e5
- Develops rapidly
- Prepares to castle queenside with a sharp game
Cons:
- Black can sometimes take advantage of the position of the bishop on g5
- Fairly theoretical