ECO code: A09
Opening Name: Reti: Advance, 3.g3 g6 4.Bg2
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. c4 d4 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2
FEN: rnbqkbnr/ppp1pp1p/6p1/8/2Pp4/5NP1/PP1PPPBP/RNBQK2R b KQkq - 1 4
The Reti: Advance, 3.g3 g6 4.Bg2 is a flexible and hypermodern setup where White fianchettoes the king’s bishop to exert long-range pressure on Black’s central pawn chain, especially targeting the d4 pawn. This move characterizes a strategy that controls the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately with pawns.
Characteristic of the move: The fianchettoed bishop on g2 is a hallmark of hypermodern openings, aiming to influence the critical central squares indirectly. White delays committing pawns to the center, instead focusing on piece development and control of key diagonals.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this is primarily an attacking strategy, applying pressure on Black’s advanced d4 pawn and preparing for central breakthroughs later. Black’s setup with ...g6 mirrors White’s fianchetto, aiming for solid and flexible defense, so Black’s stance here is more defensive and positional.
Control of the Center: White does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but challenges Black’s center from a distance. This opening embodies hypermodern principles by attacking and undermining Black’s central presence rather than direct occupation.
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.