ECO code: B00
Name: Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Linksspringer Variation
Moves: 1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 e5 3. d5
FEN: r1bqkbnr/pppp1ppp/2n5/3Pp3/4P3/8/PPP2PPP/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 3
The Nimzowitsch Defense is characterized by Black's early knight development to c6 combined with an immediate challenge to White's central control via ...e5. In the Kennedy Variation, White responds aggressively with 3. d5, pushing the pawn forward to gain space and kick Black's knight from c6.
This move 3. d5 is characteristic for gaining spatial advantage and restricting Black's knight, forcing Black to find alternative squares. It is a direct attempt by White to seize control of the center and limit Black's piece activity.
From White's perspective, this variation is attacking and aims to dominate the center early, while Black's setup is somewhat defensive and flexible, looking to counterattack later once White's center is overextended.
Overall, this opening focuses strongly on central control, with White pressing forward in the center and Black contesting it dynamically. The Kennedy Variation sharpens this contest by White's proactive pawn push to d5.
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 Nimzowitsch Defense: Kennedy Variation, Linksspringer Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 41 - Move #7 white