King’s Indian Defense: Yugoslav Variation 6…c5 by Grandmaster Andrew Soltis

Written by Grandmaster Andrew Soltis, King’s Indian Defense: Yugoslav Variation 6…c5 is a specialized guide to a dynamic and less commonly played system within the King’s Indian Defense. Published by Chess Digest, the book explores the position after 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.g3 Bg7 4.Bg2 O-O 5.Nf3 d6 6.O-O c5, where Black immediately challenges White’s center with the aggressive …c5 break.

Soltis explains the strategic ideas behind this system, showing how Black can create active counterplay, attack White’s central pawn structure, and reach positions with a Benoni-like character. The variation, associated with Grandmaster Svetozar Gligorić’s successful practice, provides Black with a practical surprise weapon against the King’s Indian Fianchetto setup.

Through theoretical analysis, strategic explanations, and practical examples, the book helps players understand the plans, typical structures, and tactical opportunities that arise from this ambitious King’s Indian system.

Topics Covered

• Fundamentals of the King’s Indian Defense
• The Yugoslav Variation with 6…c5
• Challenging White’s center with the …c5 pawn break
• Strategic plans for Black and White
• Benoni-style pawn structures and middlegame ideas
• Piece development and active counterplay
• Tactical themes and positional concepts
• Analysis of important opening positions

Key Features

• Written by Grandmaster Andrew Soltis
• Dedicated study of the King’s Indian 6…c5 system
• Explains ideas and strategy behind the variation
• Includes detailed opening analysis
• Shows how Black can create dynamic counterplay
• Based on practical grandmaster experience
• A valuable reference for King’s Indian Defense players

Recommended For

• Club players looking for an active King’s Indian repertoire
• Tournament competitors seeking a surprise weapon against 1.d4
• Serious chess students studying strategic opening systems
• Players who enjoy dynamic, counterattacking positions
• Fans of the King’s Indian Defense and hypermodern chess