ECO code: A12
Opening Name: Reti: Nimzowitsch-Larsen, 2...Nf6 g6 4.c4
Moves: 1. Nf3 d5 2. b3 Nf6 3. Bb2 g6 4. c4
Description: This line is a flexible and hypermodern approach where White fianchettoes the bishop early with 2.b3 and 3.Bb2, aiming to control the long diagonal. The move 4.c4 challenges Black’s central pawn on d5 directly, typical of the Nimzowitsch-Larsen variation. Black’s setup with ...Nf6 and ...g6 prepares to fianchetto the kingside bishop, reinforcing control over the center from a distance.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this opening is indirect control of the center by White. Instead of occupying the center with pawns early on, White uses piece pressure and timely pawn breaks like c4 to challenge Black’s center. Black responds symmetrically but aims for solid development and counterplay through fianchettoed bishop.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is slightly more attacking, as White seeks to undermine Black’s center and open lines for active piece play. Black’s setup is more defensive and flexible, focusing on solid development and counterattacking chances rather than immediate central confrontation.
Center Control: White does attack the center indirectly with 4.c4, challenging Black’s d5 pawn. This opening embodies hypermodern principles – controlling and attacking the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately.
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.