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.
Réti Opening
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. c4
The Réti Opening is a hypermodern opening where White focuses on controlling the center with pieces rather than occupying it immediately with pawns. By playing 1. Nf3 and then 2. c4, White challenges Black's central pawn on d5 indirectly, aiming to undermine Black's center from the flanks.
Characteristic: This opening is characterized by a flexible and dynamic approach to the center, often leading to transpositions into other openings. It emphasizes piece development and pressure rather than direct occupation of the center early on.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, the Réti is considered an attacking opening in a positional sense — White seeks to put pressure on Black’s center and create imbalances. Black’s response can be either defensive or counter-attacking depending on their setup.
Center Control: The Réti Opening does not immediately occupy the center with pawns. Instead, it attacks and exerts pressure on Black’s central pawns from the flanks, aiming to control the center indirectly.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Réti Opening, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 98 - Move #5 black
You can also discover how top players used Réti Opening to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.