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 puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from 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