The Tartakower (Wade) Variation arises after 1.d4 d6 2.Nf3 Bg4. ECO code: A41.

Overview

Named after Savielly Tartakower and British IM Robert Wade. Black develops the bishop actively to g4, pinning the knight and creating immediate tactical possibilities.

Strategic Themes & Plans

The bishop on g4 pins the knight and exerts pressure on White's centre. Black typically follows with ...Nf6, ...e6 or ...Nbd7, and ...e5 to challenge the centre. White can break the pin with Be2 or h3 and maintain central control. The variation leads to strategically complex positions.