Reti: KIA

ECO code: A07

1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c6

Opening Name: Reti: King's Indian Attack (KIA)

Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c6

FEN: rnbqkbnr/pp2pppp/2p5/3p4/8/5NP1/PPPPPP1P/RNBQKB1R w KQkq - 0 3

The Reti: King's Indian Attack is a flexible and hypermodern opening where White focuses on controlling the center with pieces rather than immediate pawn advances. The move 2.g3 signals White’s intention to fianchetto the bishop on g2, aiming for long-term pressure on the central and queenside dark squares.

Characteristic: This setup is characterized by White’s restrained pawn structure and emphasis on piece development and control of key central squares from a distance. The fianchettoed bishop on g2 is a hallmark of this system, supporting central and kingside activity without committing pawns early.

Attacking or Defensive: For White, this opening is primarily positional and flexible, leaning towards a strategic build-up rather than immediate attacks. White can switch between attacking and defensive plans depending on Black’s setup. For Black, moves like ...d5 and ...c6 aim to establish a strong and solid pawn center, often favoring a defensive but resilient stance.

Center Control: White does not directly attack the center with pawns early on but exerts influence over it with pieces, especially the knight on f3 and the bishop on g2. Black, meanwhile, occupies the center with pawns on d5 and c6, aiming for a solid foothold.

Opening Preview

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.

Related Puzzles

Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Reti: KIA, and sharpen your opening mastery.

Puzzle 1 of 9 - Move #5 black