Queen's Gambit

Exchange Variation

White simplifies with the early 3.cxd5 cxd5, leading to a symmetrical pawn structure with a half-open c-file for both sides. Often considered drawish, but in fact contains subtle positional nuances - whoever plays more accurately for the c-file and the e5 outpost can build a real advantage. A favourite of players who want to avoid heavy Slav theory.