ECO code: A01
Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Modern Variation
The opening begins with 1. b3 e5, where White prepares to fianchetto the queen's bishop to b2, aiming to exert long-term pressure on the central and queenside dark squares. The move 1.b3 is characteristic for its hypermodern approach, controlling the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately.
By playing 1.b3, White adopts a flexible and somewhat unorthodox setup, often leading to positional and strategic play rather than direct attacks. Black’s response 1...e5 immediately stakes a claim in the center, challenging White's plan and seizing space.
Characteristics: The key feature of the Nimzo-Larsen Attack is the early fianchetto of White’s queen bishop, aiming to influence the central squares indirectly. It is a hypermodern opening that delays direct central occupation.
Playing Style: From White’s perspective, this opening is more positional and strategic than overtly attacking. White focuses on controlling key squares and flexibility. Black, by playing ...e5, takes an assertive stance, aiming at active central control and possibly initiating direct play.
Center Control: White does not immediately contest the center with pawns but controls it from a distance through the b2 bishop and piece placement. Black actively attacks the center from the first move with ...e5.
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: Modern Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 125 - Move #4 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Larsen Attack: Modern Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.