ECO code: A13
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3
The moves are: 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. b3. In this variation, White prepares to fianchetto the light-squared bishop by playing b3, aiming to control the long diagonal and exert pressure on Black’s central and queenside squares.
Characteristic of the move 3.b3: It is a flexible and positional move that supports White’s control of the center indirectly. Instead of occupying the center immediately with pawns, White focuses on piece development and controlling key squares from a distance.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation leans toward a strategic and somewhat cautious approach rather than a direct attack. It can be considered more positional and flexible, allowing White to build up pressure gradually. Black’s setup with ...e6 is solid and somewhat defensive, aiming for a strong pawn structure and flexible piece placement.
Center Control: White does not challenge the center immediately with pawns but influences it indirectly through piece placement, especially the fianchettoed bishop on b2. Black’s move ...e6 supports a solid pawn structure and prepares to contest the center, often with ...d5 later.
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 a selection of puzzles from real positions in games that used the English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #22 black