Mattipatti white, Moonbus Black, notes by Moonbus

So far, a well-known variation of the Caro-Kann.

This is not well-known. We are out of the book from here on.

Black's plan is to develop the light-squared B to b7 and to advance the c-pawn. This should yield equality.

This gives Black a shot...

... rupturing the White K-side pawn structure, ...

and winning a pawn in the process.

I saw nothing better than retreating the B here. Too bad about the loss of tempo, but White had already lost tempi moving his light-squared B back and forth to c4.

Prophylactic: Black must prevent b3-b4. This will become obvious after the White QR comes to c1.

Ouch. Another loss of tempo, and eclipsing the R on c1. Positional analysis at the transition from opening to middle game: 1. White has the B pair, both Bs are well placed on open diagonals pointed at the Black K. Plus for White. 2. White's K is not safe. Big minus. 3. Black has harmonious and centralized piece development, and a good grip on the center squares. Plus for Black. 4. Black's K is safe (compared to White's anyway). Plus. 5. Black has a connected passer (the h-pawn). Major plus, but probably only relevant in the long term (endgame).