ECO code: A08
Opening Name: Reti: King’s Indian Attack (KIA) Setup, 2...c5, 3.Bg2 Nc6 4.d4 e6
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c5 3. Bg2 Nc6 4. d4 e6
Description: This variation of the Reti Opening blends hypermodern ideas with classical central control. White adopts the King's Indian Attack setup with Nf3 and g3, fianchettoing the bishop to g2. Black responds actively by challenging the center with ...c5 and develops the knight to c6, aiming to put pressure on White's d4 advance. After White strikes in the center with 4.d4, Black supports the center solidly with ...e6, preparing to develop the dark-squared bishop and maintain a strong pawn presence.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this line is the flexible approach to central control—White initially delays direct central occupation but eventually contests it with d4, while Black counters with active piece placement and timely pawn breaks. The fianchettoed bishop on g2 adds long-range pressure and supports central and queenside play.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the approach is balanced but leans toward a flexible, positional buildup with potential for central and kingside attack. Black’s moves are also balanced but slightly more proactive in contesting the center and challenging White’s setup. Both sides engage in a strategic battle rather than immediate tactical skirmishes.
Center Control: Yes, this opening focuses on contesting and controlling the center. White’s d4 move directly challenges Black’s central pawns, while Black’s ...c5 and ...e6 aim to undermine and solidify control over key 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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Reti: KIA, 2...c5, 3.Bg2 Nc6 4.d4 e6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #10 white
You can also discover how top players used Reti: KIA, 2...c5, 3.Bg2 Nc6 4.d4 e6 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.