Caro-Kann defense

 The Caro-Kann Defense (1. e4 c6) focuses on solid central control and smooth piece development. Let's look at the main variations from the perspective of Black's pieces.

1. e4 c6

2. Nf3 d5

3. e5 Bf5

4. d4 e6

5. Be2 Nd7

6. 0-0 Ne7

7. Nc3 a6

8. a3 h6

9. Re1 g5

10. b4 Bg7

Black will clearly play to defend and aim for a draw in the endgame.

If

1. e4 c6

2. Nf3 d5

3. Nc3 Nf6

4. e5 Ne4

5. d4 Nxc3

6. bxc3 c5

7. Bb5+ Bd7

8. c4 Bxb5

9. cxb5 e6

10. 0-0 Nd7

This is a very good position for Black as they face no major threats and can easily aim for a draw.

If

1. e4 c6

2. d4 d5 

3. exd5 cxd5 Exchange variation

4. Nf3 Nc6

5. Bf4 Bf5

6. Bb5 e6

7. 0-0 Bd6

8. Bxbd6 Qxd6

9. c3 a6

10. Bxc6+ Qxc6

A calm opening for Black, with no major threats to the king. Additionally, it is relatively simple to play.

If

1. e4 c6

2. c4 e5 Accelerated Panov attack

3. Nf3 Nf6

4. Nc3 Bb4

5. Nxe5 0-0

6. Nd3 Bxc3

7. dxc3 Nxe4

8. Be2 Re8

9. 0-0 d6

10. f3 Qb6+

11. Kh1 Nf6

This variation is likely to lead to a well-balanced game until the end.

If

1. e4 c6

2. d4 d5

3. e5 Bf5 Advance variation

4. Nc3 e6

5. Bd3 Bxd3

6. Qxd3 Nd7

7. Nf3 c5

8. 0-0 Ne7

9. Bg5 a6

10. Rae1 h6

11. Bxe7 Bxe7

12. Ne2 0-0

Here, Black has an advantage with central control, a well-protected king, and is close to connecting the rooks.