Chess Openings - The King's Indian Defense
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1. d4 Nf6
2. c4 g6
3. Nc3 Bg7
The King's Indian Defense typically follows the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7. Once considered to be unsound, the opening gained respect and popularity in the 1930's. The King's Indian Defense is considered to be more aggressive, and more risky, than the Nimzo-Indian. It is an extremely complex opening that has been used extensively by many world champions - Kasparov and Fischer included.
In the King's Indian, the centre can become locked down, at which point white has the advantage Queenside, while black has the advantage Kingside. Excellent spectacles can ensue, with black pressing for a breakthrough against the King, while white swoops down and devastates the defenseless Queenside.
How Common is the King's Indian Defense?
Common at the Master Level
Uncommon at the Novice Level
The King's Indian, due to it's complex and exciting nature, is quite popular. Expect to see it in about 35% of Indian Defenses. As with the other Indians, the King's is more popular with higher level players than with lower level players.