ECO code: A01
Opening Name: Nimzo-Larsen Attack
Moves: 1. b3
FEN: rnbqkbnr/pppppppp/8/8/8/1P6/P1PPPPPP/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 1
The Nimzo-Larsen Attack is characterized by the move 1.b3, where White immediately prepares to fianchetto the queenside bishop to b2. This bishop will exert long-range pressure on the central and diagonal squares, particularly influencing the e5 and d4 squares indirectly.
Characteristic: The move 1.b3 is somewhat flexible and unorthodox compared to classical central pawn moves. It aims to control the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this opening is considered a flexible and hypermodern approach, focusing on controlling the center with pieces rather than pawns. It can lead to both attacking and positional play depending on Black's response. It is not purely defensive but rather a strategic setup.
Center Control: The Nimzo-Larsen Attack does not directly attack the center with pawns on the first move. Instead, it targets the center from the flanks with the bishop on b2, aiming to undermine Black’s control indirectly.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Nimzo-Larsen Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 262 - Move #4 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Larsen Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.