Nimzo-Indian: Nimzowitsch, 5.Nf3 Bb7 6.Bd3 O-O

Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian: Nimzowitsch Variation, 5.Nf3 Bb7 6.Bd3 O-O

Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 b6 5. Nf3 Bb7 6. Bd3 O-O

Description: This variation of the Nimzo-Indian Defense features Black fianchettoing the light-squared bishop with ...b6 and ...Bb7, supporting control over the central and queenside dark squares. White develops solidly with Nf3 and Bd3, aiming to maintain a strong central presence. Black’s kingside castling ensures safety and prepares for flexible central or queenside counterplay.

Characteristic: The key characteristic of this line is Black’s focus on exerting pressure on the center and queenside via the fianchettoed bishop on b7, combined with piece activity rather than immediate pawn confrontation. White’s setup with Bd3 supports a classical central and kingside development, preparing for potential e4 breaks.

Attacking or Defensive: For White, this position is generally attacking, aiming to build central control and prepare kingside activity. Black’s approach is more flexible and positional, balancing defensive solidity with latent counterattacking chances on the center and queenside.

Center Control: Both sides contest the center indirectly. White establishes a strong pawn presence with d4 and c4, while Black challenges the center through piece pressure rather than immediate central pawn pushes. The opening is thus focused on controlling and influencing the center rather than direct occupation by Black early on.