ECO code: A04
Zukertort Opening Na6 begins with the moves 1. Nf3 Na6.
The characteristic feature of this opening is Black's unusual knight development to the edge of the board, specifically to the a6 square. This move is considered unconventional because knights are typically more effective when developed towards the center rather than the rim.
From Black's perspective, 1...Na6 is somewhat defensive and flexible, aiming to support c5 or b5 advances later, or to reroute the knight to more active squares such as c5. For White, the move doesn't pose an immediate threat but allows White to take the initiative in controlling the center.
This opening does not directly contest the center at first; instead, Black adopts a more hypermodern approach by controlling the center from the flanks. White, on the other hand, can easily occupy the center with pawns and pieces, as Black’s knight on a6 does not influence central squares.
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.