ECO code: A13
English Opening: 1...e6 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.g3
This variation of the English Opening features White fianchettoing the kingside bishop with 3.g3, aiming for strong control over the long diagonal and solid kingside safety. By playing 3.g3, White adopts a flexible setup that supports central influence indirectly rather than immediate occupation.
Characteristic: The move 3.g3 is characteristic of a hypermodern approach, where White allows Black to occupy the center first but plans to challenge it later with pieces and pressure from the flanks, particularly using the fianchettoed bishop on g2.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this setup is generally more positional and somewhat defensive in nature early on, focusing on solid development and controlling key squares rather than direct attacks. Black, depending on their response, can choose to counterattack the center or develop quietly.
Center Control: White does not immediately attack the center with pawns but exerts indirect pressure through piece placement and the long diagonal. The approach is about controlling rather than occupying the center early.
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: 1...e6 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.g3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 black