The Frech Defense

The French defense, exchange variation in chess is an opening for Black that begins with the moves 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5. This variation of the French defense involves Black exchanging the d-pawn for White's e-pawn, which opens the d-file and lightens Black's position. This chess opening is a common way for Black to respond to White's standard opening move of e4 and has been played by many top players.