ECO code: A48
Neo-King's Indian
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 g6 3. e3
Characteristic: This setup is a flexible and solid version of the King’s Indian Defense where White postpones the immediate c4 pawn push and develops the knight to f3 before committing the central structure. The move 3.e3 supports the d4 pawn and prepares to develop the dark-squared bishop, often leading to a more positional game.
Playing Style: From White’s perspective, the Neo-King’s Indian is generally more positional and somewhat defensive, focusing on solid development rather than early attacks. Black, on the other hand, aims for a dynamic counterattack typically centered on the dark squares and kingside play.
Center Control: White controls the center with the d4 pawn but does not immediately challenge Black’s control of the center with c4, making this a more restrained approach to the center. Black usually contests the center later with moves like ...d6 and ...e5 or ...c5.
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 Neo-King's Indian, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #10 white