ECO code: A08
Opening Name: Reti: King's Indian Attack (KIA), 2...c5, 3.Bg2 Nc6 4.O-O e6 5.d3 Nge7 6.Nbd2 g6
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c5 3. Bg2 Nc6 4. O-O e6 5. d3 Nge7 6. Nbd2 g6
Description: This variation of the Reti Opening features a flexible setup by White, combining the King's Indian Attack formation with fianchettoed bishop on g2 and a solid pawn structure. Black responds actively with ...c5 and develops pieces naturally, aiming for central and queenside counterplay. The moves ...e6, ...Nge7, and ...g6 indicate Black's intention to fianchetto their dark-squared bishop, preparing a solid kingside setup and control of the central dark squares.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this line is its hypermodern approach—White refrains from occupying the center immediately, instead focusing on controlling it from a distance with the bishop on g2 and knights supporting the center. Black challenges the center early with ...c5 and prepares a flexible pawn structure with ...e6 and ...g6, enabling both defensive solidity and counterattacking chances.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this setup is primarily positional and flexible, allowing for both defensive solidity and potential attacking chances later, especially targeting the center and kingside. Black’s setup is somewhat reactive but dynamically balanced, aiming to challenge White’s control of the center and create counterplay on the queenside and center.
Center Control: This opening does not involve an immediate direct occupation of the center by White; instead, it focuses on controlling the center from a distance. Black, in contrast, actively contests the center early with ...c5 and prepares to support the center with pawns and pieces, leading to a dynamic struggle for central control.
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.