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.
Reti Opening: King's Indian Attack (KIA)
The Reti: KIA begins with 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 Nf6 3. Bg2 e6. This setup is characterized by White’s fianchettoed bishop on g2, aiming for a flexible and solid position. White delays direct occupation of the center with pawns, instead controlling it from a distance with pieces.
Characteristic: The fianchetto of the dark-squared bishop combined with a knight developed to f3 embodies a hypermodern approach, where White invites Black to occupy the center early and plans to undermine it later.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this opening is more positional and flexible rather than overtly attacking or defensive. White maintains a solid structure and prepares for a gradual buildup, often transitioning into a kingside attack depending on Black’s setup. Black’s position is also solid but must be cautious of White’s latent pressure on the center and kingside.
Center Control: White does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but exerts pressure on it with pieces, aiming to challenge Black’s central pawns later. Black typically occupies the center early with pawns, but White’s strategy is to counterattack the center from a distance.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Reti: KIA, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used Reti: KIA to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.