ECO code: A06
Opening Name: Reti: Nimzowitsch-Larsen, 2...c5
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 c5
Description: This variation arises when Black responds to the Reti Opening with an immediate challenge to White’s control of the center by playing ...c5. After White’s flexible 2.b3, preparing to fianchetto the bishop on the long diagonal, Black strikes at the d4 and b3 squares to contest central and queenside space. The move ...c5 is characteristic of the Nimzowitsch-Larsen system’s hypermodern approach, aiming to undermine White’s center from the flank rather than occupying it directly.
Characteristic: The move 2...c5 embodies a hypermodern strategy, challenging White’s potential center and queenside development without committing to an early ...e5 or ...c6. It prepares active counterplay and opens lines for Black’s queenside pieces.
Playing Style: From Black’s perspective, this is an attacking move aimed at contesting central control and creating dynamic play. For White, the setup remains flexible and can be either attacking or positional, depending on how White develops the bishop and pawns.
Center Control: This opening variation is focused on indirectly attacking the center. Black does not occupy the center immediately with pawns but pressures it from the flank with ...c5, encouraging White to commit central pawns and creating opportunities for counterattacks.
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 Reti: Nimzowitsch-Larsen, 2...c5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #7 black