ECO code: A00
Anderssen's Opening with e5, 2.g3, d5, 3.Bg2 begins with the moves: 1. a3 e5 2. g3 d5 3. Bg2. This is an uncommon and flexible opening choice for White, aiming to fianchetto the bishop early while keeping the center fluid.
Characteristic: The move 1.a3 is a waiting move that prevents Black's pieces from easily developing to b4 and prepares for a possible b4 push later. The subsequent moves 2.g3 and 3.Bg2 indicate White's intention to fianchetto the kingside bishop, supporting control over the long diagonal. This setup is somewhat hypermodern, inviting Black to occupy the center while planning to undermine it later.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this opening is more positional and flexible rather than directly attacking. White focuses on solid development and controlling key squares rather than immediate confrontation. Black, having taken the center with e5 and d5, is playing actively and can be considered more aggressive in the early phase.
Center Control: White does not immediately contest the center with pawns but pressures it indirectly through the fianchettoed bishop on g2. Black, on the other hand, occupies the center with pawns on e5 and d5. This opening reflects a hypermodern approach where White allows Black central space but plans to challenge it later.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.