ECO code: A22
English Opening: Bremen, Smyslov Variation, 4.Bg2
The moves are: 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 Bb4 4. Bg2. In this line, White fianchettoes the kingside bishop early, aiming for strong control over the long diagonal and supporting central and queenside activity.
Characteristic of 4.Bg2: This move completes White’s kingside fianchetto, reinforcing control over the center from a distance without immediate pawn confrontation. It prepares for flexible central play and quick development, embodying a hypermodern approach where control of the center is exerted with pieces rather than pawns.
Strategic Nature: From White’s perspective, this setup is primarily positional and flexible, focusing on pressure and control rather than direct attacking. It is not an immediate attacking line but sets the stage for gradual central and queenside influence. Black’s Bb4 pins the knight and applies some pressure, so Black can be seen as playing actively but not aggressively at this stage.
Center Control: White does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but exerts pressure on central squares, especially d5, through pieces like the bishop on g2 and knight on c3. This opening embraces a hypermodern style where control and influence over the center precede direct occupation.
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: Bremen, Smyslov, 4.Bg2, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #7 black