Sicilian Defense: Spielmann Variation (B56)

The Spielmann Variation is a variation of the Sicilian Defense, catalogued as ECO B56. The line runs 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 d6 6. Nde2, reaching the position shown below after 11 half-moves.

White holds the centre with pawns on e4. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is Black to move after six moves.

On the Sicilian Defense generally: The most popular and aggressive response to 1.e4. Black fights for the center asymmetrically, leading to rich tactical play.

You can play through this variation move by move in your browser — Learn mode walks the line with an explanation at each step, and Drill mode replays it from memory so you find out whether you actually know it. No account is required.

Sicilian Defense: Spielmann Variation — position after Nde2 a8b7c6d5e4f3g2h1
Position after 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 d6 6. Nde2

Move order

#WhiteBlack
1e4c5
2Nf3Nc6
3d4cxd4
4Nxd4Nf6
5Nc3d6
6Nde2

ECO: B56

Stockfish: -0.09 at depth 18

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Frequently asked questions

What are the moves of the Spielmann Variation?

The Spielmann Variation goes 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 d6 6. Nde2. It is a variation of the Sicilian Defense and is catalogued as ECO B56.

What is the ECO code for the Spielmann Variation?

The Spielmann Variation is ECO B56. ECO codes group openings by their move order, so nearby codes cover closely related lines of the Sicilian Defense.

Is the Spielmann Variation good for White?

Stockfish evaluates the position after 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 d6 6. Nde2 at -0.09 at depth 18, which is balanced. Engine evaluation is only a starting point — at club level the practical value of a line is mostly about whether you know its plans better than your opponent does.

What kind of position does the Spielmann Variation lead to?

White holds the centre with pawns on e4. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is Black to move.