The Classical Variation relies on solid and rapid development with a focus on the center of the board. There are two main lines in the Classical Variation. White can go on the offensive immediately with 6.Bc4, leading to the Sozin Variation, (A favorite of Bobby Fischer) invite the Boleslavsky Variation (or a transposition to the Scheveningen Sicilian) with 6.Be2 or play more subtly with the Richter-Rauzer after 6.Bg5.
Because of the highly transpositional nature of the Classical Variation, White usually strives to play the forcing Richter-Rauzer Attack so that he can override the Various transpositions.
1.e4
c5
2.Nf3
d6
3.d4
cxd4
4.Nxd4
Nf6
5.Nc3
Nc6
6.Bg5
The beginning of the Richter-Rauzer. White sensibly develops his Bishop as in the Najdorf. For Black, the posssibility of playing the Dragon is less desirable. After 6....g6?! 7.Bxf6 exf6, White has damaged Black's pawn structure. The common course is:
6...e6
7.Qd2
Be7
8.0-0-0
0-0
A typically sharp Sicilian game is in sight. The classical Sicilian is one of the most popular formations for Black in modern chess. The position provides equal chances for both sides.