Odd, but invigorating. The Caro-Kann is an open, asymetrical game, but is centered like Ruy Lopez or French, instead of following the side-side form of the Sicilian or Queen's Indian.

The Caro-Kann starts as if white is trying to force a Ruy Lopez while black is trying to force a Sicilian. It is also distinctive, with its six knight moves in the first seven moves of the game!

In spite of the odd setup, at the end of the posted moves we have a comfortable, dynamic opening for both black and white.