Anderssen's Opening e5 2.g3 d5 3.Bg2 Nf6 4.d3 Nc6 5.Nd2 Bd6 6.e3

Anderssen's Opening with e5: 1. a3 e5 2. g3 d5 3. Bg2 Nf6 4. d3 Nc6 5. Nd2 Bd6 6. e3

This opening begins with the somewhat uncommon 1. a3, known as Anderssen's Opening, which is a flexible waiting move aiming to avoid mainstream theory and prepare for a solid but unambitious setup. White follows with a kingside fianchetto (2. g3 and 3. Bg2), focusing on long-term control of the dark squares and a solid defensive posture.

Characteristic: The early a3 move is mainly prophylactic, preventing Black's pieces from easily pinning or developing to b4. White’s setup with g3 and Bg2 signals a hypermodern approach, where White allows Black to occupy the center initially but plans to exert pressure on it from a distance.

Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this setup is largely defensive and positional, aiming to build a strong, flexible pawn structure and solid piece placement rather than immediate attacks. Black, having taken the center with e5 and d5, assumes a more central and slightly attacking stance, controlling key central squares.

Control of the Center: White does not immediately challenge the center with pawns but opts to control it indirectly through piece pressure, especially via the fianchettoed bishop on g2. Black establishes a strong central presence early on with pawns on e5 and d5, exerting direct central control.

Overall, this line leads to a slow, strategic battle where White seeks to undermine Black’s center over time rather than launching direct attacks early. It is well-suited for players who prefer solid positional play and avoid heavily theoretical openings.