ECO code: A01
Nimzowitsch-Larsen: Indian Variation
Moves: 1. b3 Nf6 2. Bb2 g6
This opening features White's early fianchetto of the queenside bishop with 1.b3 and 2.Bb2, aiming to control the long diagonal and put pressure on Black's center from a distance. Black responds with a kingside fianchetto of their own bishop by playing 2...g6, preparing to castle and exert influence on the central dark squares.
Characteristic: The Nimzowitsch-Larsen: Indian Variation is characterized by hypermodern principles where both sides delay direct occupation of the center, instead focusing on controlling it from the flanks with fianchettoed bishops.
Playing Style: As White, this opening leans towards a flexible, strategic approach rather than immediate aggression. Black's setup is also solid and somewhat defensive, preparing to challenge White's control of the center later on. Both sides aim for a dynamic battle over central influence rather than direct early attacks.
Center Control: This opening does not involve early direct attacks on the center. Instead, both sides use their bishops from the wings to influence the center indirectly, following hypermodern ideas.
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 Nimzowitsch-Larsen: Indian Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #6 white