ECO code: A15
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Indian Formation 3.g3
Moves: 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. g3
This setup is characterized by White fianchettoing the dark-squared bishop with 3.g3, aiming for strong control over the long diagonal and solid kingside development. By preparing to castle kingside quickly, White adopts a flexible and hypermodern approach, influencing the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately.
From White's perspective, this move is more positional and strategic than overtly attacking or purely defensive. It seeks to build a solid and harmonious setup, allowing White to challenge Black's central presence later in the game.
Regarding the center, White does not directly occupy it early on but exerts pressure on key central squares (especially d5 and e4) through the fianchettoed bishop and knight placements. This indirect control is a hallmark of the English Opening's hypermodern philosophy.
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 Indian Formation 3.g3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #8 white