ECO code: C00
French Defense: Réti-Spielmann Attack
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. g3
This variation of the French Defense features White fianchettoing the kingside bishop early with 2. g3, aiming for a solid and flexible setup. Instead of the usual immediate central confrontation, White prepares to exert pressure from the long diagonal and supports control over the central dark squares indirectly.
Characteristic: The early g3 move signals White's intention to develop the bishop to g2, which is somewhat unusual against the French Defense, as White typically challenges the center directly. This setup can lead to a more hypermodern style, focusing on control and influence over the center from a distance rather than immediate occupation.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this is generally a cautious and positional approach rather than a direct attacking line. It emphasizes flexibility and solid development. Black, meanwhile, can choose to take the center aggressively, as White does not contest it immediately.
Center Control: White does not attack the center immediately with pawns but aims to control it indirectly through piece pressure, especially from the fianchettoed bishop. Black usually gains a freer hand in the center early on.
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 French Defense: Réti-Spielmann Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #8 white