ECO code: A00
Van Geet Opening: Reversed Nimzowitsch
Moves: 1. Nc3 e5 2. b3 d5 3. e4 dxe4
This opening is characterized by White developing the knight to c3 first, followed by an early b3 to fianchetto the queen's bishop, which is somewhat unconventional. The idea behind 2.b3 is to prepare pressure on Black's central pawns and support central control indirectly. After 3.e4, White challenges the center directly, leading to the exchange on e4.
From White's perspective, this opening is attacking in nature as it aims to undermine Black's central presence and gain active piece play. Black's response with ...d5 and the exchange on e4 is a central counter, seeking to open lines and fight for central control.
Overall, the Van Geet Opening aggressively targets the center with an unusual move order, blending hypermodern ideas (controlling the center from a distance with the bishop on b2) and classical central breaks with e4.
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.